Homemade bread like grandma used to make by the hearth

Homemade Bread Like Grandma's by the Hearth

There is nothing more comforting than the smell of freshly baked bread, reminiscent of the times spent at grandma's house, when the entire home was filled with the warm and inviting aroma of bread. This simple recipe will help you recreate that experience, bringing tradition and authentic taste into your kitchen. I will guide you step by step to achieve the perfect homemade bread, with a crispy crust and a fluffy crumb.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 2 loaves

Ingredients
- 1 kg of high-quality white bread flour
- 50 g of fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon of salt (be careful not to add salt if using flour that already contains salt)
- Warm water (approximately 300 ml, ideal temperature is between 30-40 degrees Celsius)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons of sugar

A Brief History of Homemade Bread
Bread is one of the oldest foods created by humans, a symbol of nourishment and hospitality. Whether baked in a wood-fired oven or an electric oven, each recipe carries memories and traditions passed down through generations. The recipe we will follow is simple and effective, just like grandma used to make.

Step by Step for Perfect Bread

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl, adding a teaspoon of salt. If you are using bread flour, it is important to check if it already contains salt. In this case, do not add extra salt.

Step 2: Activating the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast along with the 2 teaspoons of sugar in about 100 ml of warm water. Stir gently and wait a few minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This is a crucial step, as the activated yeast will help the dough rise.

Step 3: Mixing the Ingredients
Once the yeast is activated, pour it over the sifted flour. Gradually add the rest of the warm water and start mixing the ingredients with a wooden spoon or your hands until you achieve a homogeneous dough.

Step 4: Kneading the Dough
Now comes the fun part! Knead the dough for about 15-20 minutes. It is important for the dough to become elastic and smooth. If it starts to bubble, it means it is ready. Kneading is the key to success, so take your time!

Step 5: Adding the Oil
After the dough has been kneaded sufficiently, add the 2-3 tablespoons of oil and continue kneading until the oil is fully incorporated and the dough becomes smooth again.

Step 6: Letting the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, until it doubles in volume (about 1 hour).

Step 7: Shaping the Loaves
After the dough has risen, remove it from the bowl and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each part into the desired loaf shape (you can make them oval or round, according to your preference). Place them in greased baking trays and let them rise for another 15-20 minutes.

Step 8: Preheating the Oven
While the loaves are rising, preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. It is essential that the oven temperature is appropriate to achieve a perfect crust.

Step 9: Baking the Loaves
When the loaves have risen, place them in the preheated oven and let them bake for 30-40 minutes. You will know they are done when they turn golden and, if you tap the bottom lightly, they sound hollow.

Step 10: Cooling and Serving
After baking, remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This will help maintain the texture of the crust.

Helpful Tip
If you want to add a personal touch, you can try incorporating herbs, seeds, or olives into the dough for a unique flavor. Also, for an even crispier crust, you can spray water on the oven walls immediately after placing the loaves inside, creating steam.

Pairings and Variations
This homemade bread pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from warm soups to fresh salads. It can be served plain, with butter or olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It is also ideal for breakfast, alongside jam or honey.

Nutritional Benefits
Homemade bread is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. The white flour used can be enriched with fiber if you choose to use a combination of white and whole grain flour. Additionally, by using fresh ingredients, you can have better control over the quality and nutritional value.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. An equivalent amount would be about 15 g. Make sure to activate it in warm water before adding it to the flour.

2. Why isn't my dough rising?
There are several reasons: the flour may be too old, the room temperature may be too cold, or the yeast was not activated properly.

3. How do I keep the bread fresh longer?
Bread is best stored in a cloth bag or a bread box. You can also freeze it to keep it fresh longer.

In conclusion, making homemade bread is a satisfying experience and a great way to bring a touch of tradition into your daily life. This simple recipe is easy to follow and will fill your home with an unforgettable aroma. So, grab the ingredients and enjoy every bite of this delicacy! Enjoy your meal!