Introduction
Imagine fresh, warm bread with minimal effort – this recipe transforms home baking from a time-consuming task to an effortless daily ritual. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have delicious homemade bread in no time.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 200 ml warm water
- 90 ml warm milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 10 grams dry yeast
- 480 grams wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Detailed Baking Instructions
- Activate Yeast:
- Combine warm water and warm milk
- Add sugar and dry yeast
- Stir gently
- Let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy
- Prepare Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt
- Create a well in the center
- Pour in yeast mixture and vegetable oil
- Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms
- Quick Mixing:
- No extensive kneading required
- Mix just until ingredients are incorporated
- Dough should be loose and shaggy
- First Rise:
- Cover bowl with a clean kitchen towel
- Let dough rest at room temperature
- 30-45 minutes is sufficient
- Dough will become puffy
- Shaping:
- Gently shape dough into a loaf
- Place on baking sheet lined with parchment
- No need for precise shaping
- Baking:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F)
- Optional: Make a few diagonal cuts on top
- Bake for 25-30 minutes
- Bread is ready when golden brown
- Sounds hollow when tapped on bottom
Nutritional Information
Per Slice (Approximate):
- Calories: 110-140
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 2.5g
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Rising Time: 45 minutes
- Baking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Water Temperature: Lukewarm (110°F/43°C) activates yeast perfectly
- Minimal Handling: Less kneading means softer bread
- Rising Space: Warm, draft-free area crucial
- Flour Quality: Use fresh wheat flour for best results
Variations and Substitutions
- Whole Wheat: Replace half white flour with whole wheat
- Herb Bread: Add dried herbs or garlic powder
- Seed Topping: Sprinkle seeds before baking
- Dairy-Free: Use plant milk and oil alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this without milk? A: Use all water, slight texture difference
Q2: How to store homemade bread? A: Room temperature, sealed bag for 2-3 days
Q3: Can I freeze this bread? A: Yes, up to 3 months. Wrap tightly.
Q4: Why is my bread dense? A: Ensure fresh yeast, proper rising environment
Q5: Can I make this gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free flour blend, results may vary
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Cool completely before storing
- Use airtight container
- Best consumed within 2-3 days
- Reheat in oven for crispy crust
Pro Tip: Fresh bread daily is now possible with minimal effort!
Enjoy your quick, delicious homemade bread!