The art of baking: how to master homemade bread
Back bread is an old art that has been practiced for thousands of years. It is really magical to mix a few simple ingredients together and to turn them into a warm, crispy bread homemade bread. While it initially appears intimidating, you can become a master bread baker in a very short time.
The key to the successful bread baking is to understand science behind the process. Bread is made from only four basic ingredients: flour, water, yeast and salt. The yeast is what the bread increases and creates the beautiful air bags that give bread its bright and fluffy texture. The salt improves the taste of the bread while the flour offers structure and texture.
To start your bread baking tour, first choose the right flour. Different types of flour have different protein content that influence the texture of your bread. Choose for a slight and airy loaf for bread flour, which has a higher protein content than all -purpose flour. Whole grain flour can also be used for a more nutritious option. However, note that it creates a denser loaf.
Next you have to activate your yeast. Combine warm water (approx. 110 degrees Fahrenheit) in a small bowl with a pinch of sugar and yeast. Let it sit about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast lives and is ready to be added to your dough.
Mix the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Make the fountain in the middle of the flour and pour in the yeast mix. Mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough onto a flour surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, withdrawn place for about an hour or until it has doubled. Punch the dough down to leave air bubbles free, then form into a loaf and place in a greased bread pan. Let it rise again for another 30-45 minutes.
Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Before baking, hit the top of the loaf with a sharp knife, so that steam escapes and prevent the bread from cracking. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when they are put on the floor.
As soon as your bread is finished, resist the urge, immediately cut in. Let it cool on a rust for at least 30 minutes so that the flavors can develop and set the crumb.
With a little practice and experiments, you can soon create a variety of bread, from crispy French baguettes to soft sandwich leaves. The art of baking bread is a worthwhile and satisfactory undertaking that not only impresses your friends and family, but also fills your home with the warm, calming aroma of freshly baked bread. So roll your sleeves up, dust off your apron and prepare yourself to master the art of homemade bread baking.
