Whole grain bread with beer

Whole Wheat Beer Bread: A Simple and Comforting Delight

Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of baking! Today, we will venture into making a recipe for whole wheat beer bread, a delicious and healthy choice. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, based on the combination of whole wheat flour and beer, which will give your bread a soft texture and a unique aroma. Beer bread is a traditional recipe found in many cultures, each with its own variations, but today we will focus on a classic recipe, perfect for enjoying alongside a warm meal or as a snack.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 90 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 2 loaves

Ingredients

- 1 kg whole wheat flour
- 30 g fresh yeast
- 750 ml beer (about 2½ bottles of 330 ml)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1½ tablespoons salt
- Quaker oats for sprinkling (optional)
- Butter for greasing the bowl

Ingredient details

Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber and nutrients, providing a denser texture and a more complex flavor than white flour. Fresh yeast is essential for helping the dough rise, and the beer adds extra flavor and moisture. Brown sugar contributes to the caramelization of the crust, giving a sweet note and a golden color, while salt is important for enhancing the taste. The oats (Quaker) added on top are optional but will give the bread an interesting texture.

Step 1: Preparing the dough

Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This process helps aerate the flour and remove any impurities. Add the fresh yeast and brown sugar, mixing the dry ingredients well. It is important to use fresh yeast for the best results; it will activate the dough quickly.

Step 2: Adding the beer

Transfer the flour mixture into a mixing bowl. Begin to add the beer gradually, mixing on low speed. The beer not only provides flavor but also helps hydrate the flour. Continue mixing until the ingredients start to come together. Finally, add the salt and mix again. Salt is crucial for the development of flavor and the structure of the dough.

Step 3: Kneading the dough

Once all the ingredients are well integrated, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes. If you do not have a mixer, you can do this step manually, using your hands to press and stretch the dough. The dough should be elastic and slightly sticky. If it is too wet, you can add a tablespoon of flour, but do not overdo it, as you want to maintain moisture.

Step 4: Rising the dough

Grease a large bowl with butter and transfer the dough inside. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 hour and a half. The dough should double in volume. This fermentation process is essential for developing the flavor and texture of the bread.

Step 5: Shaping the loaves

After the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Shape each part into your desired loaf shape, ensuring you have an even form. Transfer each loaf onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. If you wish, you can sprinkle oats on top for a rustic look and unique texture.

Step 6: Baking

Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Once the oven is preheated, place the tray with the loaves inside and bake for about 50 minutes or until they turn golden and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom. Make sure not to open the oven in the first 20 minutes to prevent steam from escaping.

Step 7: Cooling

After the loaves are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack. This step is important to prevent moisture from forming under the crust. So, do not rush to cut them. Let them cool completely to achieve a perfect texture when slicing.

Serving and variations

Your whole wheat beer bread is perfect for enjoying plain, with butter, or with various toppings such as cheese, vegetables, or cold cuts. It is also delicious alongside soups or salads, adding extra flavor to your meal. You can experiment with the type of beer used: a pale beer will provide a lighter flavor, while a dark beer will intensify the taste. Additionally, you can add seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds) to the dough for an extra nutrient boost.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Replace 30 g of fresh yeast with about 10 g of dry yeast.

2. Is beer necessary for this recipe?
Beer plays an essential role in developing flavor and texture. However, you can try substituting it with sparkling water or milk if you want a non-alcoholic version.

3. How can I keep the bread fresh?
The bread can be stored in a cloth bag or an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as it can become dry.

Nutritional benefits

This whole wheat beer bread is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals due to the whole wheat flour. The fiber helps maintain digestive health and can contribute to weight control. Additionally, beer contains antioxidants, which may provide heart health benefits.

In conclusion, whole wheat beer bread is a simple and delicious recipe that can bring a touch of creativity to your kitchen. With a little effort and simple ingredients, you will achieve a tasty bread, perfect for any meal. So, put on your apron, dress in good cheer, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of baking!