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You will no longer buy bread

You will no longer buy bread

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Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  2. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and stir gently to combine. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. If the mixture doesn’t bubble up, it means the yeast may not be active, and you might need to try a new packet.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour.
  2. Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, pour it into the well of flour, along with the olive oil.
  3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, stir the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is too wet, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the bread dense.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour, but try to keep it as soft as possible. Kneading helps develop the gluten, which will give the bread its airy, light texture.
  2. If you’re kneading by hand, remember to push the dough away with the heels of your hands, fold it over, and turn it. Repeat this motion until the dough is smooth.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

  1. Once your dough is kneaded, place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
  2. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You can speed up this process by placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a sunny window.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

  1. Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release the air bubbles.
  2. Shape the dough into a loaf by rolling it into a tight cylinder or simply folding the edges under to form a round shape. If you prefer, you can also divide the dough into two smaller loaves.
  3. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan, or on a baking sheet if you’re making a round boule.
  4. Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up again.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

  1. While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Once the dough has risen, place it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  3. If you want a crispy crust, you can place a small pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam, which will help the crust form beautifully.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

  1. Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. This will help prevent it from becoming soggy.
  2. Once the bread has cooled enough to handle, slice it up and enjoy! Whether you spread some butter, make a sandwich, or eat it as is, this fresh, homemade bread will quickly become your new favorite.

Tips for Success:

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: If you’re using cold water or cold flour, the dough may not rise as well. Room temperature ingredients will yield the best results.
  • Don’t Rush the Rising: Give the dough ample time to rise. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the process by placing the dough in a warm area, but avoid trying to rush it by turning up the heat—this could affect the texture of your bread.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Add herbs, seeds, or cheese to your dough for different flavor profiles. Some people like to add garlic or onion for savory bread, or cinnamon and raisins for a sweet twist.
  • Storing the Bread: Homemade bread is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze slices and toast them when needed.

Conclusion: Never Buy Bread Again

Once you taste your own homemade bread, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought loaves. Not only is it fresher, more flavorful, and customizable, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding process. The next time you’re tempted to grab a loaf of bread from the store, remember that you can easily make your own at home with just a few simple ingredients.

Whether you’re making this bread for sandwiches, to accompany a hearty soup, or just to enjoy with a smear of butter, this simple recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, get baking, and say goodbye to store-bought bread for good!

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