Start the Yeast:
In a big bowl, mix together 370 ml of warm water and 10 g of dry yeast. Stir softly and leave it for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is completely dissolved and bubbly.
Make the dough:
Put 500 grams of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt into the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a lumpy dough is created.
Work the dough by pressing, folding, and stretching it.
Move the dough to a surface with a little flour and work it with your hands for 8-10 minutes until it is soft and stretchy. If the dough is too wet, put in a bit more flour, one spoonful at a time.
Beginning:
Put the dough in a clean bowl with a little oil, cover it with a damp cloth, and leave it in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
Form the dough.
Press the dough that has risen to remove any air bubbles. Form the dough into a loaf or the shape you prefer, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased loaf pan.
Next Stage:
Place a cloth over the dough and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
Make the bread.
Heat your oven to 200°C (400°F) before using it. Cook the bread in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when you tap the bottom.
Chill and Serve:
Take the bread out of the oven and allow it to cool on a metal rack before cutting it. Enjoy your freshly baked bread either warm or at room temperature!
Advice:
To make the crust softer, apply melted butter on the top of the bread after it is done baking.
Include seeds or herbs in the dough for more taste.
Why You'll Love This Dish
Simple to prepare using basic ingredients.
Ideal for people who are just starting.
Smooth and fluffy inside with a crunchy outer layer.
Suitable for various kinds of bread.
Questions that people ask a lot.
Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use quick-rise yeast. If you are using instant yeast, you don't need to activate it separately. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
How can I tell if my yeast is still working?
To see if your yeast is working, combine it with lukewarm water and a little bit of sugar. If it gets bubbly and frothy in 5-10 minutes, it is working. If not, it might be old, and you should use a new one.
Can I prepare this bread without gluten?
Yes, but you will need to use a gluten-free flour mix that works well for making bread. Doughs without gluten may require special treatment and more time to rise, so make sure to adapt accordingly.
How can I make the outer part of something softer?
To make the bread crust softer, you can brush melted butter on top or cover it with a clean, damp cloth right after baking.
Can I include additional ingredients such as seeds, nuts, or herbs?
Of course! You can include seeds, nuts, or herbs in the dough while mixing to give it more flavor and crunch.
What should I do if my dough is too wet?
If your dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, one spoonful at a time, until it becomes smooth and stretchy.
How can I keep the bread fresh when storing it?
Keep the bread in a bread box or a closed plastic bag at room temperature for a maximum of 3 days. To keep it fresh for a longer time, store it in a sealed container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Is it possible to prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and put it in the refrigerator after it has risen for the first time. Allow it to reach room temperature and rise once more before shaping it and baking.
Why did my bread end up heavy?
Bread can become dense if the dough is not kneaded well, not left to rise enough, or if old yeast is used. Make sure to mix the dough well until it is smooth and stretchy, and let it rise for enough time.
Can I use a bread machine to bake this bread?
Yes, you can operate a bread machine by following the instructions provided by the manufacturer for your particular model. Put the ingredients in the order suggested by the machine. Usually, begin with the wet ingredients and then add the dry ingredients.