Bread for sandwiches

Bread for sandwiches – a simple and delicious treat

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1.5 hours
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 slices

The history of bread is fascinating and full of tradition, being an essential food in the diets of many cultures throughout the centuries. From rye bread to white bread, each variety has its unique personality. Today, we focus on a recipe for sandwich bread, perfect for quick meals and delicious snacks. This fluffy and aromatic bread will add a touch of magic to every sandwich, whether filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat.

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g wheat flour (choose a high-quality variant for optimal results)
- 150 ml sour cream (the source of moisture and smoothness)
- 100 g kefir (for a slightly tangy taste and soft texture)
- 50 g butter (melted and cooled, adds richness)
- 1 tablespoon salt (to enhance flavors)
- 1 teaspoon honey (a touch of sweetness that helps activate the yeast)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (about 25 g; ensure it is fresh for effective rising)
- 1 egg yolk (for the top glaze)
- Milk (about 1-2 tablespoons, to dilute the yolk)

Step by step to perfect bread:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the cube of yeast in a little warm water (about 37-40 degrees Celsius). Add the honey and stir gently. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. This step is essential as it confirms that the yeast is active.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a larger bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Ensure the salt is well distributed, as direct contact between yeast and salt can inhibit its activity.

3. Creating the dough: Make a well in the middle of the flour mixture and add the activated yeast, sour cream, and kefir. Start mixing the ingredients with a spatula or your hands, gradually adding the melted butter. Knead the dough gently until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step can take between 8 and 10 minutes.

4. Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts, until it doubles in volume. This process can take between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on the ambient temperature. A useful trick is to place the dough in an oven preheated to 30 degrees and then turn it off. The gentle heat will help with the rising.

5. Shaping the bread: Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured work surface and knead it gently for 2-3 minutes to release the accumulated air. Shape it into a long cylinder that fits into the loaf pan (lined with parchment paper). Cover again and let it rise for 20 minutes.

6. Preparing for baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with a little milk. Using a brush, coat the surface of the bread with this mixture, which will give a golden and shiny crust.

7. Baking: Place the pan in the oven and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns golden and, when tapped on the bottom, sounds hollow. Once baked, remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Practical tips for a perfect result:

- Flour: Choose a high-quality flour, preferably with a high gluten content, to achieve a fluffier texture.
- Rising: If the dough does not rise, check the temperature of the yeast. Water that is too hot can kill the yeast, while water that is too cold will not activate it.
- Dairy-free option: If you prefer a vegan recipe, replace the sour cream and kefir with plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat) and use vegan butter.
- Creative additions: Try adding olives, seeds, or herbs to the dough for a unique taste and texture.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A slice of bread made from this recipe contains about 120-150 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is rich in complex carbohydrates, essential for energy, and contains proteins from kefir and sour cream. This bread is a good source of probiotics, which aid in digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use 7 g of dry yeast. Mix it directly with the flour.

2. How do I keep the bread fresh for longer?
Wrap the bread in a clean cloth and store it in a cool place. You can freeze the slices to keep them fresh longer.

3. What other recipes can I try with this bread?
This bread is perfect for sandwiches, avocado toasts, or even as a base for bruschetta. Pair it with soups or salads for complete meals.

Now that you have all the details on how to prepare this delicious sandwich bread, all that’s left is to get your hands to work! Whether you enjoy it plain, with butter, or as part of a creative sandwich, the result will surely be appreciated by all your loved ones. Happy cooking!