To speed up the process of letting your homemade bread dough rise without using a microwave oven, you can try several alternative methods that create a warm, moist environment to encourage yeast activity. Here are some effective techniques:
Use the oven with the light on: Place your covered dough in a bowl inside the turned-off oven with the oven light on. The light bulb generates a small amount of heat, creating a warm environment for the dough to rise. Make sure the oven is not preheated or too hot, as excessive heat can damage the yeast.
Boil water and use a warm, moist towel: Boil some water and pour it into a baking dish placed at the bottom of your oven. Then, place your covered dough in a bowl on a rack above the baking dish. Cover the dough with a warm, moist towel to trap the steam and create a warm environment.
Use a proofing box: If you frequently make bread, investing in a proofing box can be a great option. A proofing box is designed specifically to create a consistent, warm, and humid environment for dough to rise effectively.
Utilize a warm spot in your home: Find a warm spot in your kitchen or house, such as near a sunny window or on top of the refrigerator. Cover the dough with a clean, damp cloth to maintain moisture.
Create a warm water bath: Fill a sink or a large container with warm water and place your covered dough bowl inside it. The warm water will help maintain the right temperature for rising.
Preheat your oven briefly: Preheat your oven to the lowest possible temperature for a minute or two, then turn it off. Place your covered dough in the warm oven for rising.
Remember, while speeding up the rising process can be useful, allowing the dough to rise slowly at room temperature also contributes to better flavor development. If possible, plan ahead and let the dough rise naturally for the best results.