Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's also healthy and utterly delicious? This sunflower seed bread recipe is the perfect answer! Forget those bland, store-bought loaves. This homemade bread is packed with nutty flavor, a delightful crunch, and the wholesome goodness of sunflower seeds. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for beginner bakers, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 cup sunflower seeds, roasted and lightly salted (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and honey (or sugar). Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it's a little sticky at this stage.
Step 4: Add Sunflower Seeds: Gently fold in the roasted sunflower seeds. If you prefer, toast the seeds for a few minutes in a dry skillet before adding to enhance their flavor and create a crispier texture.
Step 5: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 6: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 7: 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 8: Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 9: Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check for doneness – it should come out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your delicious homemade sunflower seed bread!
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, or a combination of both.
- Add other seeds, such as pumpkin seeds or flax seeds, for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Brush the top of the bread with melted butter or olive oil before baking for a glossy finish.
Variations:
- Sweet Sunflower Seed Bread: Add ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the dough for a sweeter bread.
- Herby Sunflower Seed Bread: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the dough.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 4-6g
- Fat: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to store-bought bread. The nutty flavor of sunflower seeds adds a unique twist, while the simple ingredients make it easy to whip up a fresh loaf at home. Enjoy!