Ingredients:
Warm water: 1 ½ cups (370 ml)
Dry yeast: 2 tablespoons (10 g)
Flour: 4 cups (500 g)
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Directions:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes foamy.
- Make the dough: Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until it forms a rough dough.
- Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it is too sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size.
- Shape the dough: Deflate the dough and shape it into the desired shape. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased loaf pan.
- Second rise: Cover the dough and let it rise for 30-45 minutes, until it doubles in size.
- Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips:
Soft crust: Brush the top with melted butter after baking.
Add Flavor: Seeds or herbs can be added to the dough.
Reasons to Love This Recipe:
Easy to make with simple ingredients.
Perfect for beginners.
Soft texture with a crispy crust.
Versatile for different bread variations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use instant yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast by skipping the activation step.
How do I know if the yeast is active? Mix with warm water and sugar. If it foams, it is active!
Can I make this bread gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I make the crust softer? Brush the bread with melted butter immediately after baking.
What if the dough is too sticky? Add flour, one tablespoon at a time, until smooth.
How do I store fresh bread? In a bread box or sealed bag at room temperature for 3 days.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can refrigerate it after the first rise.
Why is my bread dense? It could be due to underworked dough or inactive yeast.
Can I bake this bread in a bread maker? Yes, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your model.
