Are you craving the wholesome goodness of freshly baked bread but intimidated by yeast? Fear not! This easy wheat bread recipe requires no yeast, making it the perfect choice for beginner bakers and busy weeknights. Enjoy the satisfying aroma and incredible taste of homemade bread without the fuss. This recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and healthy meals can be quick and easy to make. It's a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk (or 1 1/2 cups milk + 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar – let sit for 5 minutes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted coconut oil for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rolled oats (optional, for added nutrition and texture)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents pockets of baking soda from creating a bitter taste.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk (or milk mixture), honey (or maple syrup), and olive oil. Whisk until well combined. If using optional quinoa or oats, add them now.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Step 4: Shape the Loaf
Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from becoming soggy. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Wheat Bread:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baking soda is essential for proper leavening.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to ensure the bread is fully baked.
- Cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely helps it retain its structure.
Variations:
- Add seeds and nuts: Incorporate sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced bread.
- Herbs and cheese: Mix in some dried herbs like rosemary or thyme, or grated cheddar cheese.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 3-5 grams
This delicious homemade wheat bread is a perfect example of easy recipes that are also healthy meals. It’s a simple yet satisfying addition to any meal, and a great way to incorporate more whole grains into your diet. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and making this recipe your own. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a simple snack. Happy baking!