Semi-wholemeal bread

Semi-Whole Wheat Bread Recipe: The Aroma and Goodness of Meeting the Oven

Who doesn't love the enticing smell of freshly baked bread? It's a warm, almost nostalgic feeling that reminds us of family moments, festive meals, and the comfort of home. The semi-whole wheat bread we will prepare today will not only fill the house with a delicious aroma but will also bring a touch of health to our diet. With simple ingredients and a few tricks, we will achieve an exceptional result, perfect for enjoying with butter, jam, or delicious combinations with cheeses. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total: 3 hours
Number of servings: 10 slices

Ingredients

For a bread of approximately 750 g, you will need:

- 300 ml warm water (approximately 35-40°C)
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 and a half tablespoons of powdered milk
- 180 g bread flour (with higher gluten content)
- 340 g whole wheat flour (preferably whole grain)
- 1 heaping teaspoon of dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)

The Story of Semi-Whole Wheat Bread

Bread has been a staple food for many cultures around the world throughout history. From flatbreads to the most sophisticated types, each recipe carries a story. Semi-whole wheat bread, with its slightly dense texture and rich flavor, is an excellent choice for those who wish to combine pleasure with health. Whole grain flour retains the essential nutrients of wheat, providing important fibers and vitamins for the body.

Step by Step: Preparing Semi-Whole Wheat Bread

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. It is important that the water is warm to activate the yeast, but not hot, as it can destroy it.

2. Using the Bread Machine: If you have a bread machine, it will make the process easier. Start by adding the warm water to the machine's bowl, followed by the olive oil. Add the salt, brown sugar, and powdered milk. These ingredients will contribute to a tender texture and pleasant taste.

3. Adding the Flour: Add the two types of flour, the bread flour and the whole wheat flour, ensuring that they cover the liquids. Finally, add the dry yeast. This order is essential to avoid premature activation of the yeast.

4. Kneading: Select the kneading program of the machine (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, program 13 for Moulinex). The machine will do all the work, but if you prefer to knead by hand, mix the ingredients in a large bowl and knead for 10-15 minutes on a floured surface.

5. First Rise: Once the dough is homogeneous and elastic, remove it from the machine (or bowl) and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover it with a cloth napkin and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in volume.

6. Shaping the Dough: After the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and gently knead it to release the air. Shape it according to your preference: a round loaf, a baguette, or even rolls. Place it in the baking pan, cover again with a napkin, and let it rise for 30 minutes.

7. Preparing the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat the oven to 170°C. A good idea is to place a pan of water in the oven, as the steam will help achieve a crispy crust.

8. Baking: Before placing the bread in the oven, sprinkle a little flour on top of the dough. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the bread is golden and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom gently.

9. Cooling: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a rack or tray for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial to allow the steam to evaporate, thus preventing a moist texture.

Practical Tips

- Flour: If you want a lighter bread, you can replace part of the whole wheat flour with white flour. However, for a richer taste and nutritional benefits, keep the recommended proportions.

- Yeast: If using fresh yeast, use about 25 g. Dissolve it in warm water along with the sugar before adding it to the dough.

- Serving: This bread is delicious served warm, with butter and jam, or used for sandwiches with cheese and fresh vegetables. It also pairs perfectly with soups or salads.

Possible Variations

To add a touch of originality, you can try incorporating various seeds (sunflower seeds, sesame, or caraway) or herbs (oregano, basil) into the dough.

Nutritional Benefits

Semi-whole wheat bread is an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. It also contains B vitamins and essential minerals such as iron and magnesium, thus benefiting cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, for a gluten-free version, use a special gluten-free flour and add a binding agent, such as xanthan gum.

2. How can I keep the bread fresh longer?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature or wrap it in a cotton towel. You can freeze the slices to keep them fresh.

3. Can I use the bread machine for the final baking?
Of course! Many bread machines have a baking program that can be used after shaping the dough.

In conclusion, making semi-whole wheat bread at home can be a fulfilling experience, and with a few simple tricks, you'll achieve a delicious, healthy bread with a unique taste. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy every slice!