Baking bread is an age-old tradition that can bring a sense of satisfaction and connection to our food. In a world where supermarkets are filled with pre-baked options, baking bread yourself can be an enriching experience that not only brings tasty results, but also a deeper appreciation for the baking process and the ingredients we use. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps and techniques needed to bake delicious bread at home, from kneading the dough to enjoying the warm, fragrant results.
Step 1: gather your ingredients
Baking bread starts with gathering the right ingredients. You need flour, water, yeast and salt. For extra flavour and texture, you can also add other ingredients such as seeds, nuts, and dried fruit.
Step 2: make your dough
In a large bowl mix the flour, water, yeast and salt. Slowly pour the water into the flour while stirring, until you have formed a cohesive dough. Then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
Step 3: let the dough rise
Place the dough in a bowl lightly greased with oil and cover with a damp cloth. Let the dough rise in a warm, draught-free place until it has doubled in size, usually about 1-2 hours, depending on the ambient temperature.
Step 4: shape the bread
After rising, remove the dough from the bowl and gently press it flat to remove any air bubbles. Shape the dough into the desired shape for your bread – round, oblong, or in a baking tin.
Step 5: let the bread rise again
Place the shaped loaf on a baking tray lined with baking paper or in a baking tin and cover again with a damp cloth. Let the bread rise again until it has doubled in size, usually another 30-60 minutes.
Step 6: Baking the bread
Preheat the oven to the right temperature for the type of bread you are baking. Then bake the bread in the preheated oven until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap on it, usually 25-35 minutes, depending on the size and shape of the bread.
Baking your own bread is an artisanal activity that not only produces delicious results. It can also bring a sense of satisfaction and connection with our food. By following the simple steps and techniques, you can enjoy the delicious smell and taste of freshly baked bread at home, and maybe even discover a new passion for baking! Don’t feel like getting started with bread yourself? Then just drop by our bakery!