Bread with flaxseeds and sunflower seeds

Bread with flaxseed and sunflower seeds

Preparing a delicious bread at home is an art and a science, a process that, although it may seem complex, becomes extremely satisfying when you savor your creation. Bread with flaxseed and sunflower seeds is an excellent choice for those who desire not only a tasty food but also a healthy one. This type of bread is rich in fiber and essential fatty acids, offering a perfect combination of nutrition and flavor.

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

Ingredients:
- 1 kg wheat flour (ideally use type 650 flour for a fluffier texture)
- 500 ml lukewarm water
- 40 g fresh yeast (or 14 g dry yeast)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 50 g margarine for baking (or butter for a richer flavor)
- 100 g flaxseeds
- 100 g sunflower seeds (you can also add other seeds, such as pumpkin or sesame, for a varied flavor)

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl, ensuring it is aerated. This will help achieve a fluffy texture. In the center of the flour, make a well and add the yeast, salt, and sugar. It is important not to put the salt directly on the yeast, as it needs a warm environment to activate fermentation.

Step 2: Adding wet ingredients
Melt the margarine and let it cool slightly, then add it to the bowl with flour, along with the lukewarm water. Start mixing with a wooden spoon, gradually bringing the flour from the edges towards the center of the bowl.

Step 3: Kneading the dough
When the dough begins to form, transfer it to a clean surface and knead it vigorously for about 10 minutes. The dough is ready when it becomes elastic and easily pulls away from your hands and the surface. A well-known trick is to slap it against the work surface about 20-30 times, which will help develop the gluten and improve the texture of the bread.

Step 4: Letting the dough rise
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shaping the loaves
After the dough has risen, transfer it to the work surface and divide it into two or three pieces, depending on the desired size of the loaves. You can choose to braid them for an attractive visual appearance. After shaping them, roll them in the flaxseed and sunflower seeds, pressing lightly to adhere. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, allowing them to rise again for 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Baking
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 220°C. Once the loaves have risen, you can brush them with a little olive oil for a shiny appearance. Bake them for 35-40 minutes, or until they are beautifully browned. A trick to check if the bread is done is to tap the bottom lightly; if it sounds hollow, it is perfectly baked.

Enjoying the bread
After removing the loaves from the oven, let them cool on a rack. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be irresistible! Bread with flaxseed and sunflower seeds pairs wonderfully with butter, fresh cheese, or even sweet marmalade for a perfect breakfast.

Nutritional benefits
This bread is not only tasty but also healthy. Flaxseeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, contributing to heart health. Sunflower seeds add a boost of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. Whole wheat flour provides complex carbohydrates, keeping you energized throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, it is possible! Use about a third of the amount of fresh yeast, which is 14 g of dry yeast.

2. Can I replace margarine with oil?
Yes, olive oil or coconut oil are excellent alternatives. The oil will provide a different, yet authentic flavor.

3. What other seeds can I add to the dough?
You can experiment with pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, or ground seeds to add texture and additional nutrients.

Possible variations
To further enrich the flavor of the bread, you can add herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the dough. Additionally, you can include olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean touch.

So here is a simple recipe for bread with flaxseed and sunflower seeds, combining health with flavor. Don't forget to share it with your loved ones, as good bread is meant to be enjoyed together! Enjoy your meal!