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Homemade Bread Recipe - Perfect Aroma and Texture

Get ready to discover the joy of baking homemade bread! This simple yet delicious recipe will transform you into a true master of the oven, even if you are just starting out. Freshly baked bread holds a special place at any table, and with this recipe, you will bring not just a baked product but also the warmth and comfort of home to your meal.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8 small loaves

Basic Ingredients:

- 250 g flour (preferably type 650 wheat flour for a fluffier texture)
- 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast (choose a quality yeast to ensure even rising)
- 5 g sugar (this will help activate the yeast)
- 1 teaspoon salt (salt enhances the flavor and texture of the bread)
- 20 ml olive oil (or sunflower oil for a milder taste)
- 125 ml warm water (about 38-40°C to activate the yeast)

Step by step: Making the Bread

1. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the dry yeast. Ensure that the mixture is uniform so that the yeast is evenly distributed. Add the sugar and salt, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon.

2. Adding Oil and Water: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the oil. Then, start gradually adding the warm water. It is important to add the water little by little, continuously mixing to avoid lumps.

3. Kneading: Once the ingredients are mostly combined, transfer the dough to a clean countertop and knead for about 10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. If it is too sticky, add a little more flour. A trick to check if it has been kneaded enough is to perform the "window" test: stretch a piece of dough between your fingers; if it stretches without tearing, it's ready!

4. First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a bowl greased with a little oil, and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 40 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shaping the Loaves: After the dough has risen, transfer it to the countertop and gently knead it to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions, shaping them into small balls or loaves. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

6. Second Rise: Let the loaves rise again, covered, for 10 minutes. During this time, preheat the oven to 200°C.

7. Preparing for Baking: Brush each roll with milk (you can also use a beaten egg for a shinier crust). This step will help achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the loaves are golden and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom. Depending on your oven, the time may vary, so it's good to check from time to time.

9. Cooling: Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This will help maintain the crispy texture of the crust.

Practical Tips:

- Ingredients: Use high-quality flour for the best results. Whole grain flour can be used for a healthier option, but it will require adjusting the amount of water.
- Rising: If you want a deeper flavor bread, let the dough rise for a longer time, even a few hours. This will allow the flavors to develop.
- Variations: Experiment by adding dried herbs, grated cheese, or seeds (such as sesame or poppy) to the dough for extra flavor.
- Serving: These breads are delicious served warm, alongside butter or with dips. They are also excellent for sandwiches or to accompany a hot soup.

Nutritional Benefits: These homemade breads are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy. The oil adds healthy fats, and the flour can be a source of fiber, especially if you use whole grain flour.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, use about 20 g of fresh yeast, but make sure to activate it in warm water with sugar before adding it to the flour.
2. How can I tell when the breads are baked? Check for a golden color and tap lightly on the bottom of the loaves; if they sound hollow, they are done.
3. What can I do with leftover bread? The breads can be stored in an airtight container for a few days or frozen for later use.

A Personal Note: For an even more pleasant aroma and texture, I recommend trying to add some dried herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, to the dough. These will transform the loaves into a perfect delicacy for holiday meals or family dinners.

Enjoy every bite of these homemade, aromatic, and fluffy breads. Baking bread is not just an act of cooking; it is an art that combines patience with passion, and the result will always be satisfying!