Whole grain bread

Whole Grain Seed Bread Recipe - A Soft and Tender Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 slices

Introduction

Bread is one of the oldest and most beloved foods in the world, holding a special place in many hearts. This whole grain seed bread recipe combines the comforting taste of fresh bread with the nutritional benefits of whole grain flour and healthy seeds. Whether served at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this bread will add a touch of flavor and health to your meal.

Ingredients

To achieve perfect bread, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

- 200 g whole grain flour
- 300 g white flour
- 200 ml buttermilk or yogurt (Greek yogurt can also be used for a creamier texture)
- 100 ml warm water
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (olive oil adds a delicate flavor and is healthy)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- Half a cube of fresh yeast (approximately 25 g)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for flavor and crunchy texture)
- 1 teaspoon flaxseeds (rich in omega-3)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough:
Start by preparing the ingredients. In a mixing bowl or a large bowl, add the warm water, buttermilk, oil, salt, and sugar. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

2. Adding the Flour:
Add the two types of flour to the bowl, making sure to incorporate them gradually. Finally, crumble the fresh yeast on top, allowing it to interact with the wet ingredients.

3. Kneading:
Use a dough hook mixer or knead the dough by hand for 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly so.

4. First Rising:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 40 minutes until the dough doubles in size.

5. Preparing the Pan:
While the dough is rising, prepare a loaf pan. Grease it with a little oil and dust it with white flour to prevent sticking.

6. Shaping the Dough:
After the dough has risen, divide it into two parts. Shape one piece of dough into a roll and place it in the prepared pan. From the remaining dough, form 4-5 balls that you can place on top of the roll to create buns.

7. Second Rising:
Allow the dough to rise in the pan for another 30-40 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and airy bread.

8. Sprinkling the Seeds:
Before putting the bread in the oven, sprinkle sesame and flaxseeds on top. They not only add a pleasant texture but also an attractive appearance.

9. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 170°C. Bake the bread for 30 minutes until golden brown, and when you tap the bottom lightly, it sounds hollow.

10. Finishing:
After removing the bread from the oven, to keep the seeds in place, brush it with a mixture of water, oil, and salt using a pastry brush. Let it sit for 5 minutes in the turned-off but warm oven. This is a simple trick to achieve a crispier crust and ensure the seeds are well adhered.

Practical Tips

- Yeast: Ensure the yeast is fresh to achieve well-risen bread. If using dry yeast, use about a quarter of the amount.
- Flour: You can experiment with other types of flour, such as rye or oat flour, to add additional flavors and nutrients.
- Seeds: Try adding other seeds, such as pumpkin seeds or chia, for extra texture and health benefits.
- Storing the Bread: The bread stores well in an airtight container and can be frozen to have it always on hand.

Nutritional Benefits

This whole grain bread is an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Whole grain flour is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. Flaxseeds and sesame seeds provide essential omega-3 fatty acids and protein, contributing to heart health and immune system support.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of milk? Yes, you can use almond or soy milk, but the texture of the bread may change slightly.
- What can I do with leftover bread? You can make toasted croutons or stuffed buns with various fillings.
- Is this recipe vegan? If you use water instead of buttermilk and olive oil, it becomes vegan.

Serving Suggestions

This whole grain bread pairs wonderfully with butter, jam, or honey at breakfast. You can use it as a base for delicious sandwiches or alongside a warm soup for a comforting lunch.

Variations

- Herb Bread: Add dried herbs (such as rosemary or oregano) to the dough for extra flavor.
- Olive Bread: Incorporate chopped olives into the dough for a Mediterranean touch.

Whole grain seed bread is not only a simple and quick recipe but also a wonderful way to surprise your family and friends with a delicious and healthy baked good. Enjoy and happy cooking!