Are you looking for a delicious and healthy bread option that won't spike your blood sugar? Then look no further! This low glycemic index (GI) bread recipe is perfect for those watching their sugar intake or simply seeking a healthier alternative to traditional white bread. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and adds a fantastic option to your quick dinner ideas. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- ½ cup oat bran
- ½ cup psyllium husk powder (optional, for extra fiber and improved texture)
- 1 cup rolled oats (optional, for added texture and flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, resulting in a lighter loaf.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add whole wheat flour, almond flour, oat bran, and psyllium husk powder (if using) to the wet ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. If using rolled oats, add them now.
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s manageable.
Step 5: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This slow rise is crucial for developing flavor and texture.
Step 6: Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 7: Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 8: Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a toothpick to check for doneness – it should come out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Savor your delicious, healthy, low GI bread!
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast.
- Add seeds like flax, chia, or sunflower for extra nutrients and texture.
- You can adjust the amount of almond flour depending on your preference for texture. More almond flour will result in a denser loaf.
- Ensure your yeast is fresh to achieve optimal rising.
Variations:
- Herby Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough.
- Sweet Bread: Add ½ cup of raisins, cranberries, or chopped nuts for a sweeter treat. This variation is still relatively low GI compared to traditional sweet breads.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size, but generally, expect a slice of this bread to be lower in sugar and higher in fiber compared to regular white bread. It’s always best to use a nutrition calculator to get precise values based on your specific ingredients.
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional bread, perfect for those following a healthy lifestyle and seeking easy recipes for healthy meals. Enjoy this versatile loaf with your favorite soups, stews, or as a simple accompaniment to your favorite dishes. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes.