Are you craving a soft, subtly sweet bread that melts in your mouth? Look no further than Pan de Agua, a delightful Mexican bread that's surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and offers a delicious, healthy alternative to store-bought loaves. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet satisfying homemade bread recipe, perfect for any occasion! It’s a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup vegetable shortening, softened
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
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 active and ready to leaven your bread, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the softened shortening and beaten egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined. This step helps to create a smooth and evenly distributed dough.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it's a little sticky at this stage.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough remains too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it's manageable. Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a chewier texture.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This slow rise allows the yeast to work its magic, creating air pockets for a softer bread.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape into a round or oval loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with a little milk or water and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the bread to set properly and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Tips for the Best Pan de Agua:
- Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure your water is the correct temperature for activating the yeast.
- Don't over-knead the dough, as this can result in a tough loaf.
- If your dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.
Variations:
- Add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor, such as rosemary, oregano, or cinnamon.
- Substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Add raisins, cranberries, or chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 4-5g
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe for Pan de Agua is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious aroma and satisfying taste of this homemade bread! It’s a perfect example of delicious dishes achievable with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. This recipe provides a healthy and satisfying alternative for those looking for easy recipes and best recipes.