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Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into small chunks. Place them in a medium-sized pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they’re tender when pierced with a fork, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes, then mash them until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C) with the sugar and active dry yeast. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly. If the mixture doesn’t froth, your yeast may be expired, and you may need to try with a new packet.
3. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the mashed potatoes and melted butter to the dry ingredients, followed by the frothy yeast mixture. Stir everything together until it begins to form a dough. The dough will be slightly sticky, but if it’s too wet, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a soft, slightly tacky consistency.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. If you have a stand mixer, you can use the dough hook attachment for this process. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and only slightly sticky when done.
5. Let the Dough Rise: Grease a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside, turning it around to coat it in the oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, and shape it into a loaf by folding in the sides and rolling it up. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan, and cover it again with the towel. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up to fill the pan.
7. Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you prefer a softer crust, you can brush the top of the bread with some melted butter right after baking.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the pan and place it on a cooling rack. Let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve with butter, jam, or as a side to your favorite meal.
Tips for Success
- Potato Variety: Russet potatoes work best for mashed potatoes, but feel free to experiment with other types. Just make sure the potatoes are starchy and can break down easily.
- Temperature of Milk: Be sure your milk is warm, not too hot, to avoid killing the yeast. If it’s too hot, it could prevent the yeast from activating properly.
- Rising Time: The rising time can vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen. If it’s cold, the dough may take longer to rise. You can also let it rise in a warm oven (with the oven off) to speed up the process.
Why You’ll Love Potato Bread
This potato bread recipe is simply irresistible because of the unique way the potatoes add moisture and richness to the dough. The mashed potatoes not only create a soft, tender texture but also provide a slight sweetness that balances out the savory elements of the bread. The result is a wonderfully light loaf with a deliciously subtle flavor. Whether you’re using it for sandwiches, making a breakfast toast, or enjoying it with your dinner, potato bread elevates any meal to a whole new level.
If you’ve never tried baking bread with potatoes before, now is the perfect time. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a fresh, homemade loaf that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Conclusion
This irresistible potato bread is more than just a side dish—it’s a comforting treat that enhances any meal. With its tender crumb and light, slightly sweet flavor, it’s no wonder this bread has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade potato bread. Happy baking!
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