Bread with seeds and milk

Seed and Milk Bread - A Simple and Flavorful Recipe

Looking for a bread recipe that brings a touch of warmth to every meal? This seed and milk bread recipe is the perfect solution! Aromatic, with a crispy crust and fluffy crumb, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it ideal for any cooking enthusiast, regardless of experience level.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour + 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients:
- 25 g fresh yeast
- ~ 500 g wheat flour (for better texture, use type 550 flour)
- 200 ml warm water (about 37°C)
- 50 ml milk at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Sesame, poppy, and cumin seeds for decoration

Let’s start our culinary adventure!

1. Toasting the seeds
Start by toasting the sesame seeds in a dry skillet. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add the seeds. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until the seeds turn golden and release their aroma. Be careful! They can burn easily, so don’t leave them unattended.

2. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, place the flour. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the crumbled yeast. Slowly pour in the warm water and milk, gently mixing with a fork to dissolve the yeast. Add the salt and continue mixing. As the yeast dissolves, begin to incorporate the flour from the edges until the dough starts to come together.

3. Kneading
When the dough becomes compact enough, transfer it to a well-floured work surface and knead for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This is a crucial step to achieve fluffy bread, so don’t rush!

4. Rising
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. You can check if the dough is ready by gently pressing it with your finger. If it springs back easily, it’s perfect!

5. Shaping the bread
After the dough has risen, place it on the work surface and gently punch it down to release the air. Shape it into your desired form (e.g., oval or round) and place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

6. Preparing for baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Before placing the bread in the oven, brush the surface with a little water and sprinkle the toasted sesame, poppy, and cumin seeds on top. These will not only add a delicious flavor but also provide a crunchy texture.

7. Baking
Bake the bread for 45-50 minutes or until it turns golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

8. Serving and storing
The seed and milk bread can be served warm, alongside butter or jam, but it’s also excellent in sandwiches. You can pair it with a creamy soup or a fresh salad. Store the bread in a cloth bag to keep it fresh.

Suggestions and variations
If you want to experiment, you can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for extra flavor. You can also replace some of the flour with whole grain flour for a healthier option.

Nutritional benefits
This bread is not only delicious but also nutritious! Sesame seeds are rich in calcium and antioxidants, and adding milk provides a good dose of protein and calcium. It’s a great food for the whole family, promoting a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
- *Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?*
Yes, you can use 8 g of dry yeast. It will need to be activated in warm water before adding it to the dough.
- *How long does the bread last?*
The bread keeps well for 3-4 days in a cloth bag or a bread box.

I wish you great success in making this seed and milk bread recipe! Whether you enjoy it alone or share it with loved ones, I’m sure it will be a true delight! Enjoy your meal!