Whole Wheat Bread

Whole Wheat Bread Recipe with Fresh Yeast

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I invite you to discover with me the magic of preparing a delicious, soft, and aromatic whole wheat bread that will fill your home with an inviting smell. This whole wheat bread recipe is not only simple but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the carefully selected ingredients. Baking bread at home is not just a pleasant activity but also an excellent way to enjoy a healthy diet. Let’s begin our adventure in the world of bread!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8 slices

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of whole wheat flour
- 1 cup of whole grain flour
- 1 cup of bran
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (approximately 25 g)
- 1 cup of warm milk
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Sesame or poppy seeds (optional, for decoration)

Necessary utensils:
- Saucepan
- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking tray
- Kitchen towel
- Brush for greasing

History of Bread:
Bread is one of the oldest foods consumed by humanity, with deep roots in our culinary culture. Over time, each culture has contributed unique elements to the baking process, and today we have an astonishing variety of types of bread available. The whole wheat bread we will prepare today is not only delicious but also full of fiber and essential nutrients.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast without destroying it. The butter should be melted, but let it cool slightly before adding it to the mixture.

2. Melting the butter and combining it with the milk:
In a saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the cup of milk and mix well. Let it warm together for a few minutes, but ensure the temperature does not exceed 37 degrees Celsius.

3. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the two cups of whole wheat flour, one cup of whole grain flour, one cup of bran, a pinch of salt, and one tablespoon of brown sugar. Mix the dry ingredients well. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the fresh yeast.

4. Activating the yeast:
Pour the warm milk and melted butter mixture over the yeast, making sure to soak it well in the liquid. Here’s a trick: if you want to check if the yeast is active, add a little sugar to the milk; if bubbles form, it is ready to use.

5. Kneading the dough:
Start kneading the dough with your hands, adding whole wheat flour as needed until the dough becomes smooth and pulls away from your hands. Make sure to knead for about 10 minutes. This is an essential step to develop the gluten, which will give the bread a fluffy texture.

6. Fermentation:
Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it sit in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial as it allows the yeast to act.

7. Shaping the bread:
After the dough has risen, remove it from the bowl and knead it again slightly to release the air. Here you have the freedom to shape it as you wish. A popular option is to break off a quarter of the dough and form 3 balls. Roll them into long strips and braid them to create a rustic and appealing look.

8. Preparing for baking:
Place the braided bread in the baking tray and brush it with water using a brush to help the strips of dough stick together. Let it rise for another 15 minutes, covered with a towel.

9. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). Bake the bread for about 30 minutes, or until it turns golden. To check if it is baked, do the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

10. Cooling and serving:
After removing the bread from the oven, brush it with a little warm water to keep its moisture and cover it with a thicker towel to soften it. Let it cool slightly before slicing. The bread is delicious served warm, with butter or jam.

Serving suggestions:
This whole wheat bread pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings, from butter and fruit jams to cheeses or cold cuts. A slice of bread with avocado and a little olive oil is an excellent choice for a healthy breakfast. It can also be combined with a vegetable soup for a comforting dinner.

Variations:
To add extra flavor, experiment with herbs in the dough, such as oregano or rosemary. You can also add sunflower seeds or ground nuts for a crunchy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This whole wheat bread is packed with fiber, which helps with digestion and maintaining a healthy weight. Whole grain flour contains a higher amount of nutrients compared to white flour, making it an excellent source of B vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to use the appropriate amount (about half of the amount of fresh yeast).

2. How can I keep the bread fresh longer?
Store the bread in a paper bag or in a well-sealed container at room temperature. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as it can become dry.

3. Can you add other ingredients, such as seeds or dried fruits?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different combinations to create a bread that suits your tastes.

I hope this whole wheat bread recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and becomes a staple in your menu. Don’t forget to share your results with loved ones and let us know how it turned out! Enjoy!