Homemade bread with 2 grams of yeast

Homemade Bread with Dry Yeast: A Simple Recipe for a Fluffy Delight

Today we offer a recipe for homemade bread that will transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. This bread, with a golden crust and a fluffy crumb, is perfect to be served alongside various dishes or simply enjoyed with butter and jam. If you've ever dreamed of enriching your meals with freshly baked bread, this is the ideal recipe for you!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 11 hours (10 hours in the fridge + 1 hour at room temperature)
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 430 g white flour (choose a quality flour with a medium gluten content for optimal results)
- 335-340 ml room temperature water (warm water helps activate the yeast, but avoid hot water)
- 2 g dry yeast (make sure it is fresh to achieve a fluffy bread)
- 8 g salt (salt not only adds flavor but also helps strengthen the dough structure)

Step by step: Preparing the homemade bread

1. Hydrating the yeast: Start by placing the dry yeast in a small bowl, adding a little water (from the 335-340 ml). Let the yeast hydrate for 5-10 minutes. You will notice it becomes fluffy and foamy, a sign that it is active and ready to use.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the salt. It is important to sift the flour to aerate the mixture, which will contribute to a better texture of the bread.

3. Forming the dough: Add the hydrated yeast to the bowl with flour and salt. Begin mixing, gradually adding the rest of the water. When all the ingredients are combined, you will obtain a sticky and soft dough. Don’t worry, this is a normal part of the process!

4. Kneading the dough: At this stage, it is important to knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes. You can use oil on your hands to prevent it from sticking. Kneading will develop the gluten, giving the bread an elastic texture.

5. Resting in the fridge: Place the dough in a bowl covered with plastic wrap or a lid and let it rest in the fridge for 10 hours. If you are impatient, 6 hours are sufficient, but the longer it rests, the more flavorful the bread will be.

6. Shaping the bread: After the resting time, take the dough out of the fridge. Using a floured surface, shape it as desired. You can make a round loaf or a baguette, depending on your preferences. Use extra flour to avoid sticking.

7. Second rising: Place the dough in a cast iron pot or a thick-walled vessel, covering it with a clean towel. Let it rise for another hour at room temperature. During this time, you can preheat the oven to 220-250 degrees Celsius.

8. Baking the bread: Once the dough has risen, place the covered pot in the preheated oven. Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes. About 10 minutes before finishing, remove the lid to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

9. Cooling: After the bread is baked, let it cool on a rack. This step is essential to maintain the fluffy texture and avoid moisture.

Useful tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add dried herbs or spices to the dough.
- Experiment with whole grain flours or seeds to add extra nutrients and flavors.
- Serving with melted butter or extra virgin olive oil can turn a simple slice of bread into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits:
This homemade bread is much healthier than store-bought baked goods, as it contains no additives or preservatives. White flour provides essential carbohydrates for energy, while salt helps maintain electrolyte balance in the body.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use fresh yeast. About 6-7 g of fresh yeast is equivalent to 2 g of dry yeast.

2. How can I tell if the bread is baked?
A bread is baked if, when you tap its bottom, it produces a hollow sound. It should also be golden on the outside.

3. What other recipes can I combine with this bread?
This bread pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or can be used for delicious sandwiches.

This homemade bread recipe is not only simple but also full of possibilities. Whether you decide to serve it alongside a warm soup or transform it into hearty sandwiches, the result will always be delicious. Plus, the joy of baking fresh bread at home is an invaluable feeling – nothing compares to the aroma of hot bread coming out of the oven. So, don’t hesitate, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade bread recipe!