Braided bread

Fluffy Braided Bread Recipe for Bread Machine

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

Homemade bread is undoubtedly one of the greatest joys we can have in the kitchen. Its fresh aroma, fluffy texture, and unmistakable taste bring a touch of happiness to every meal. So, let’s discover together how to make a fluffy braided bread using a bread machine. It’s a simple recipe but with spectacular results that will surely win over everyone in the family!

A Brief History of Bread

Bread is one of the oldest foods prepared by humans and has a history that spans thousands of years. It has evolved from simple mixtures of water and flour baked on stones to the sophisticated products we see today. Each culture has made unique contributions to the art of bread-making, and the use of simple yet quality ingredients is the secret to a successful recipe.

Ingredients

- 250 g yogurt (or kefir for a tangier taste)
- 50 ml water (plus one tablespoon, depending on the dough consistency)
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably olive or sunflower)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 500 g flour (white or whole grain, depending on preference)
- 1 packet of granulated yeast (about 7 g)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- Sesame seeds (for decoration)

Useful Tips for Ingredients

1. Yogurt or kefir: These dairy products not only provide a pleasant flavor but also help achieve a fluffier bread due to their acidity. If you don’t have yogurt, you can also use buttermilk.

2. Flour: Choose a good quality flour as it will influence the final texture of the bread. Whole grain flour is a healthy option but may require an adjustment in the amount of water.

3. Yeast: Ensure that the yeast is fresh to achieve well-risen bread. If you prefer, you can use fresh yeast, but you will need to adjust the amount.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. It’s important that they are at room temperature to ensure optimal yeast activity.

2. Mixing the ingredients: If you are using a bread machine, add the ingredients in the following order: first the liquids (yogurt, water, oil) and then the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt, yeast). Make sure that the yeast does not come into direct contact with the salt, as the latter can inhibit its activity.

If you prefer to knead by hand, mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl, then make a well in the center and add the liquid ingredients. Stir with a spatula or your hands until a dough forms.

3. Kneading: If using a bread machine, select the kneading program. If kneading by hand, work the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. A useful trick is to add a little extra flour only if necessary; the dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet.

4. Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for 1-2 hours until the dough doubles in volume. If using a machine, it will do all the work for you.

5. Shaping the bread: Once the dough has risen, remove it from the bowl and gently knead it to release the air. Then, divide it into three equal strands. Braid them carefully and place them in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

6. Second rising: Let the bread rise again, covered, for 30-40 minutes until it doubles in size. This is the perfect time to preheat the oven to 180°C.

7. Brushing and decorating: Beat the egg in a small bowl and carefully brush the surface of the bread. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a crunchy and decorative look.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the bread is golden and sounds hollow when lightly tapped on the bottom. This is the sign that it is well baked.

9. Cooling: After removing the bread from the oven, let it cool on a rack for about 15 minutes before slicing it. This step is essential to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

Serving and Suggestions

Fluffy braided bread is delicious served warm, alongside butter and jam, or simply with a glass of milk. It can also be used for making sandwiches, toasts, or in combination with soups and salads. If you want to experiment, try adding herbs to the dough or grated cheese for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This bread is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. The yogurt or kefir in the recipe adds probiotics, beneficial for digestive health. Additionally, sesame seeds are rich in calcium and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What do I do if I don’t have a bread machine?
You can knead the dough by hand, as detailed above. It’s a pleasant experience and will connect you more with the cooking process.

2. How can I keep the bread fresh?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature. If you don’t consume it within a week, you can freeze it to keep it longer.

3. Can I add other ingredients?
Certainly! You can experiment with different types of flour, seeds, nuts, or herbs to create a customized bread.

In conclusion, making fluffy braided bread in a bread machine is not only a pleasant activity but also a way to bring a touch of comfort to each day. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with loved ones and turn every meal into a celebration!