Making homemade bread from scratch can be a rewarding and enjoyable process. Here's a basic recipe for a classic white bread to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (around 110°F or 45°C)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
Instructions:
Proof the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This process confirms that the yeast is active and ready to use.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture and vegetable oil or melted butter. Stir everything together until it forms a rough dough.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Shape the dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into the desired bread loaf shape. You can use a loaf pan or shape it freeform on a baking sheet.
Second rise: Place the shaped dough back into the loaf pan or on the baking sheet. Cover it with the towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it increases in size once more.
Preheat the oven: During the second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the bread: Once the dough has risen, and the oven is ready, make a few shallow slashes on the top of the bread with a sharp knife or razor blade. This helps the bread expand during baking. Bake the bread for approximately 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
Check for doneness: To ensure the bread is fully baked, tap the bottom of the loaf. It should sound hollow when it's done.
Cool and enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and enjoying!
Remember, bread-making can take a bit of practice, so don't be discouraged if your first loaf isn't perfect. Experiment with different flours, hydration levels, and shapes to find what works best for you. Happy baking!