Tools and Ingredients
Here’s what you need to get started on your bread-making adventure.
300g all-purpose flour (approximately 2 ⅓ cups)
30g granulated sugar (2 tablespoons)
4g salt (⅔ teaspoon)
10g dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
200ml lukewarm milk (just under 1 cup)
One egg for egg wash (for brushing the loaf)
Step-by-Step Bread Making
Mixing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, dry yeast, vegetable oil, and lukewarm milk. Stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a dough.
Kneading
Move the dough to a floured work surface. Knead it for roughly 10 minutes, or until it feels smooth and elastic.
Shaping the Dough
Shape your dough into a ball. Then, with a rolling pin, flatten it into an oval shape. Roll the dough up tight, folding in the ends as you go. Stop once you have about 4 inches of dough left unrolled.
Cutting and Rolling
With a dough cutter, section the remaining unrolled dough into even strips. Finish the roll, making sure to securely tuck in the strips.
Proofing
Set the loaf on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise for around 30 minutes, or until its size has roughly doubled.
Preparing the Oven
Heat your oven to 390°F (200°C).
Egg Wash
Give the loaf a generous brushing with your egg wash.
Baking
Bake it in the oven for 25 minutes, or until the top turns a lovely shade of golden brown and your kitchen fills with a mouthwatering scent.
Cooling
Once done, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a bit.
Enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own bread at home with this simple recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at bread making for the first time, you’ll love the taste and texture of this homemade bread.
FAQs
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute bread flour for all-purpose flour for a slightly chewier texture.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast in place of dry yeast, but you may need to activate it in warm water before adding it to the dough.
How long does the bread stay fresh?
The bread is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking. You can store it in a sealed container or resealable bag to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough for flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding herbs, cheese, garlic, or other ingredients to the dough before baking.