Homemade bread

Homemade Bread – A Classic Recipe Full of Love and Flavors

There’s nothing more comforting than the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. This homemade bread recipe is simple yet offers a unique flavor and texture. It’s perfect to enjoy alongside a warm meal or simply with a touch of butter and jam. I invite you to discover the steps that will lead you to a golden and fluffy bread that you can customize to your liking.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour (or until doubled in volume)
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total: Approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients:
- 25 g of fresh yeast
- A pinch of salt
- 400 ml of lukewarm water
- Flour, as needed (approximately 600-700 g, depending on the type of flour used)

Step 1: Preparing the yeast
Start by dissolving the fresh yeast in 100 ml of lukewarm water. Make sure the water is not too hot, as it could kill the yeast. Add a pinch of salt to activate the yeast. Gently mix until the yeast is completely dissolved.

Step 2: Adding the flour
In a large bowl, add 200 g of flour and mix well. Then, pour in the yeast and salt mixture. Continue to incorporate the flour, alternating with the remaining lukewarm water, until you achieve a smooth dough. You can use a wooden spatula or a large spoon to mix.

Step 3: Kneading the dough
Once the dough becomes smooth, transfer it to a floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you feel the dough is too sticky, gradually add flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as bread that is too dry will not have a fluffy texture.

Step 4: Let the dough rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in volume. You can try placing it in an turned-off oven with a light on to create a warm and humid environment.

Step 5: Braiding the bread
After the dough has risen, remove it from the work surface and gently knead it to release the air. Divide the dough into 3 equal parts. You can choose to braid them into a traditional loaf or form small balls, depending on your preferences. Make sure the braid is tight but not too tight, allowing the dough to rise further.

Step 6: Second rise
Place the braided bread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover again with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy texture.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Beat an egg in a small bowl and carefully brush the surface of the bread with the beaten egg. This will give a golden and shiny crust. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cooling
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a rack. This step is important as it allows steam to escape, keeping the bread crispy.

Serving suggestions:
This homemade bread is perfect to be served warm, alongside butter and jam, or to accompany soups and stews. You can turn it into delicious sandwiches with various fillings, from vegetables to cheeses.

Variations:
For an even more complex flavor, you can add ingredients such as herbs, garlic, or olives to the dough. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour, for a healthier bread.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A slice of homemade bread has approximately 80-100 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This bread is rich in complex carbohydrates, providing energy, and contains proteins from the flour. It’s an excellent choice for a nutritious breakfast or a snack.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 8 g of dry yeast, activating it in the same way with lukewarm water.

2. How can I tell if the dough has risen properly?
The dough should double in volume and become airy. You can gently poke it with your finger; if it leaves an indentation, it’s ready to be kneaded.

3. What can I do with leftover bread?
Homemade bread can be used to make croutons, toast, or even bread pudding!

Now you are ready to create a delicious homemade bread that will not only fill your home with an inviting aroma but also bring joy to your loved ones. Cooking is an art and an expression of love, and this bread recipe is perfect for practicing your skills and bringing smiles to those around you. Start today and enjoy every step of this process!