Simple homemade bread

Simple homemade bread: a fragrant delight for any meal

When it comes to sharing the joy of cooking, nothing compares to the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread. This simple homemade bread recipe is a true treasure, perfect for both beginners and those with experience who wish to reconnect with the art of bread-making. I invite you to discover the simple and effective steps to achieve a fluffy and aromatic bread that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total: Almost 2 hours
Servings: 8-10

Essential ingredients:
- 1 kg of flour (choose a high-quality wheat flour for the best results)
- 25 g fresh yeast (or 2 packets of dry yeast)
- 600 ml warm water (about 38-40 degrees Celsius)
- 2 teaspoons of salt (preferably sea salt)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to activate the yeast)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower oil works great)

A few words about the history of bread:
Bread is a staple food with a history that spans thousands of years. Since ancient times, people have started combining grains with water, creating a meal to nourish them. Over time, recipes have evolved, and each culture has added its own touch. Today, bread remains a symbol of hospitality and community, bringing people together around the table.

Step by step for perfect bread:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step not only removes any impurities but also aerates the flour, making it easier to use. Add the salt to the flour, mixing well to ensure it is evenly distributed.

2. Activating the yeast:
In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast (either fresh or dry) in warm water. Add the sugar and stir gently. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an essential step, as activated yeast will make the bread rise beautifully and evenly.

3. Mixing the dough:
Once the yeast is activated, add the water and yeast mixture to the flour. Start mixing with a spatula or your hands until the ingredients begin to come together. Gradually add the oil and continue kneading. The dough should be slightly sticky but not stick to your hands.

4. Kneading:
Transfer the dough to a well-floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. Use the "push and fold" technique to develop the gluten, which will allow the bread to be fluffy and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but don’t overdo it.

5. First rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for an hour, or until it doubles in size. This process is essential for achieving an airy texture.

6. Shaping the bread:
After the dough has risen, divide it into four equal parts. Shape each part into rolls the size of your baking tray. Braid the four rolls for a rustic and pleasing look. Place the bread in two trays lined with parchment paper.

7. Second rise:
Cover the bread again with a towel and let it rise for 20-30 minutes. This step will ensure a fluffy and light bread.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the bread for 50 minutes or until it is golden and sounds hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom. A useful trick: to check if the bread is baked, you can insert a kitchen thermometer into the middle of the bread; the internal temperature should be about 90 degrees Celsius.

9. Cooling:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a rack. It is important to let it breathe so that it does not become soggy.

Serving suggestions:
This simple bread is perfect for enjoying with butter, jam, or as a base for a delicious sandwich. You can serve it alongside a warm soup or a fresh salad for a comforting lunch. Another idea is to use it to prepare bruschetta with tomatoes and basil, bringing a Mediterranean flavor to your meal.

Interesting variations:
- Herb bread: Add 2 tablespoons of dried herbs (oregano, basil, or rosemary) during kneading for a more intense flavor.
- Seed bread: You can add sunflower seeds, sesame, or flaxseeds to the dough for extra nutrients and texture.
- Olive bread: Incorporate chopped green or black olives for a Mediterranean aroma.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What type of flour should I use?
Universal wheat flour is the most suitable, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier bread.

2. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, dry yeast is an excellent alternative. Two packets (about 7 g each) are equivalent to 25 g of fresh yeast.

3. How can I keep the bread fresh longer?
Bread is best stored in a cloth bag or a plastic container at room temperature. Avoid storing it in the fridge, as this can make the texture dry out.

4. Why didn’t my bread rise?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the water is not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Also, a warm and humid environment helps the dough rise.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get to work! Make yourself a tea or coffee, put on your favorite playlist, and enjoy the magical process of cooking. Your simple homemade bread will surely become a favorite in your family, bringing comfort and warmth to every meal. Enjoy!