Are you looking for a simple way to incorporate more fiber into your diet? Do you crave the warm, comforting smell of freshly baked bread but want a healthier option? Then look no further! This high-fiber bread recipe, perfectly suited for your bread machine, is the answer. It’s surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and packed with the goodness of whole grains. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and nutritious loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own! This recipe offers a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal, and delicious dishes all in one loaf.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup oat bran
- ½ cup wheat bran
- ½ cup flaxseed meal (optional, adds extra fiber and omega-3s)
Instructions:
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Prepare the bread machine: Ensure your bread machine is clean and ready to use. Grease the pan lightly with oil or baking spray if needed.
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Combine ingredients: Add the warm water to the bread machine pan, followed by the yeast and honey (or sugar). Let it sit for a minute or two to allow the yeast to activate; you should see some foaming.
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Add remaining ingredients: Add the olive oil, salt, whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, oat bran, wheat bran, and flaxseed meal (if using) to the bread machine pan. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Select the setting: Select the "whole wheat" or "basic" setting on your bread machine. If your machine doesn't have a specific whole wheat setting, choose the basic setting with a longer kneading and rising time.
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Bake: Let the bread machine do its magic! The baking time will vary depending on your bread machine model, usually ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
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Cool and serve: Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best High-Fiber Bread:
- Fresh yeast: Using fresh, active yeast is crucial for a successful loaf. Check the expiration date before starting.
- Water temperature: The water temperature is critical for yeast activation. Too hot will kill the yeast, too cold will slow down the process.
- Flour consistency: Don't be afraid to adjust the flour quantity slightly, depending on the humidity and type of flour you use. You may need to add a tablespoon or two more of all-purpose flour if the dough seems too wet.
- Adding extras: Feel free to experiment with add-ins such as chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
Variations:
- Spiced High-Fiber Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ginger, and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced loaf.
- Rosemary and Garlic Bread: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary and 2 cloves of minced garlic for a savory twist.
- Sweet High-Fiber Bread: Increase the honey to 2 tablespoons and add ½ cup of raisins or cranberries for a sweeter bread.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and slice size. However, expect a relatively high fiber content per slice, along with good amounts of protein and complex carbohydrates. It's always a good idea to use a nutrition calculator to get a more precise estimate for your specific recipe.
This homemade high-fiber bread recipe is a fantastic addition to any healthy eating plan. It's a delicious and easy way to boost your daily fiber intake, making it a great choice for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and satisfying your craving for homemade cooking. Enjoy!