Are you looking for a delicious and healthy bread recipe that’s also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This milk kefir bread recipe offers a delightful tangy flavor and a wonderfully soft texture, all while being packed with beneficial probiotics. It’s the perfect addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, perfect for a quick dinner or a delightful breakfast. Forget store-bought loaves; this recipe will become your new go-to for easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk kefir (dairy or non-dairy) – you can easily find this at most health food stores or make your own!
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey/maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, for a richer flavor)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk kefir, sugar (or alternative sweetener), and yeast. Gently stir and let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This activates the yeast, a crucial step for a light and airy bread.
Mixing the Dough:
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Add the salt and melted butter (if using) to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
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Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Don't worry if it's a little sticky at first; it will come together as you knead.
Kneading and Rising:
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you're new to kneading, don't worry – it just takes a bit of practice! The goal is to develop the gluten in the flour, which gives the bread its structure.
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Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is the magic of yeast; it’s working hard to make your bread rise!
Shaping and Baking:
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Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf or a rectangular loaf, depending on your preference.
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Place the shaped loaf in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Let the loaf rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add 1/4 cup of your favorite seeds or nuts to the dough.
- Experiment with herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic twist.
- Make it sweeter: Add a little extra sugar or some raisins or cranberries to the dough.
- Gluten-free option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly as gluten-free flours absorb liquid differently.
- Different Kefir: Feel free to experiment with different types of kefir; coconut kefir or even water kefir would create unique flavor profiles.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and slice size)
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
This milk kefir bread is a fantastic addition to any meal. Its tangy flavor pairs well with savory dishes and sweet toppings alike, making it a truly versatile addition to your healthy meal planning. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the delicious results!