Classic Homemade Bread: Simple, Soft, and Delicious

 

🍞 Simple Homemade Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

Main Components:

  • **Dry Yeast:** 10 grams (1 packet)
  • **Warm Water:** 200 ml (1 glass)
  • **Flour:** 720 grams (6 cups) + 120 grams (1 cup) for initial mixing
  • **Salt:** 10 grams (1 teaspoon)

Egg Wash (for crust):

  • **Egg Yolk:** 1
  • **Milk:** 1 tablespoon

Preparation & Baking Instructions

  1. **Activate Yeast:** Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water (200 ml) and stir until fully dissolved.
  2. **First Mix:** Mix in **120 grams of flour** (1 cup) until smooth. Gather the dough, cover, and let it **rest for 15 minutes** (sponge stage).
  3. **Kneading:** Add **400 ml of warm water**, mix well, then gradually add the remaining **720 grams of flour** and salt. Knead for **3-4 minutes** until a soft, slightly non-sticky dough forms.
  4. **First Fermentation:** Cover the dough and let it ferment until it **doubles in size**.
  5. **Shape:** Remove air (punch down), gather the dough, and divide it into two parts. Roll each into a ball and let rest for **10 minutes**.
  6. **Final Shaping:** Flour the surface lightly, expand the dough with your fingers, then roll it inward (like a log or spiral). Repeat with the second dough.
  7. **Final Proofing:** Arrange the shaped dough on a baking tray, cover, and leave for **20 minutes**.
  8. **Bake:** Brush the dough with the egg yolk and milk mixture. Bake at **200°C (392°F)** until golden brown, about **25-30 minutes**.

Serving & Tips

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with butter or your favorite spread.
  • Great alongside soups, salads, or as a sandwich base.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the water is **warm, not hot**, to activate the yeast properly.
  • Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep it **soft and light**.
  • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Nutritional Information

Dietary Facts

  • **Contains Gluten** due to the flour.
  • Suitable for **vegetarians**.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Provides a good source of **carbohydrates** for energy.
  • Homemade bread can be lower in preservatives compared to store-bought options.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 150
Total Fat 1.5g
Saturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 20mg
Sodium 300mg
Total Carbohydrates 30g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Sugars 1g
Protein 4g

Storage

  • **Short Term:** Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to **3 days**.
  • **Long Term:** Freeze in a resealable bag for up to **3 months**. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.

 

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