Homemade bread

Homemade Bread Recipe: Fresh Delight from the Oven

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

Homemade bread is a symbol of comfort and tradition, and making it can be a fulfilling experience. In this simple recipe, you will learn how to achieve fresh and aromatic bread, perfect for any meal. Additionally, I will provide you with useful tips to ensure that each step is easy to follow and that the final result meets your expectations.

Ingredients:
- 500 g wheat flour (you can also use whole wheat flour for a more robust flavor)
- 30 g fresh yeast (or 10 g dry yeast)
- 300 ml lukewarm water (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize the crust)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the starter: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water, adding the sugar as well. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an indication that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a larger bowl, place the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated starter. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until a dough begins to form.

3. Kneading: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Knead it for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to add too much, as it will make the bread dense.

4. Rising: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

5. Shaping the bread: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a work surface and gently punch it down to release the air. Shape it into your desired form (round loaf or baguette) and place it in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

6. Second rising: Cover the dough again with a cloth and let it rise for 30 minutes.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 220°C. If you want a crustier loaf, you can place a tray of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam. Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, until it is golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cooling: Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a rack for a few minutes before slicing.

Serving suggestion: Serve the freshly baked bread with melted butter and fruit jam or pair it with soups, salads, or cheeses for a savory lunch.

Possible variations: You can add various seeds (sunflower, sesame, or flax) to the dough for added texture and flavor. Additionally, adding dried herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, can transform the bread into a true delight.

This homemade bread recipe is simple and accessible to anyone, even those with no kitchen experience. With a little patience and love, you will achieve fresh bread that will fill your home with an inviting aroma and bring joy to every meal. Enjoy!