Here’s a simple homemade bread recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top of the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. If it doesn’t bubble, your yeast may be expired, and you’ll need to start with fresh yeast.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Add the olive oil (if using) as well.
- Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until it begins to form a dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water, one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step, mixing for about 5-7 minutes.
- Let it Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into two smaller loaves.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough into greased loaf pans or onto a baking sheet. Cover and let it rise again for about 30-60 minutes, or until it has risen to about the top of the pan.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake:
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should be about 190°F (88°C).
- Cool:
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade bread! You can also experiment by adding herbs, seeds, or grains for extra flavor and texture.
