Avanti Bread
Avanti Bread Recipe | Delicious Homemade Bread
Introduction
Avanti Bread is a delightful homemade bread recipe that brings the warmth and comfort of traditional baking into your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those who love the aroma of freshly baked bread filling their home. With its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor, Avanti Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways, from breakfast toast to a complement for your dinner table.
History
The origins of Avanti Bread trace back to traditional European bread-making techniques, adapted over time to suit modern kitchens and ingredients. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each adding their own touch to perfect its taste and texture. It embodies the spirit of family and tradition, making it more than just a bread recipe, but a legacy.
Ingredients
- 0.75 cup of warm water
- 1 package of active dry yeast
- 1 beaten egg
- 0.5 tsp of salt
- 0.5 cup of granulated sugar
- 3 cups of bread flour
- 1 tsp of vegetable oil
How to prepare
- Dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Mix oil, eggs, salt, and sugar together until blended.
- Add flour one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Knead until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise until doubled, about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Repeat the kneading and rising process.
- Punch down the dough.
- Cut the dough into 2 pieces.
- Let the dough rise, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Shape the dough into 2 oblong loaves, about 14 inches long.
- Place the loaves on greased cookie sheets.
- Cover the loaves and let them rise again for about 50 – 60 minutes.
- Cut a slash down the middle of each loaf or make 3 slashes diagonally on top.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
Variations
- This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to include additional flavors such as herbs, garlic, or cheese. For a sweeter version, consider adding dried fruits or a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure the best results, make sure your yeast is fresh as it is crucial for the bread to rise properly. The water temperature should be warm to the touch but not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it. When kneading the dough, use a floured surface to prevent sticking, and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten, giving the bread its structure.
Serving Suggestions
Avanti Bread can be served in various ways. Enjoy it freshly baked with a spread of butter, use it to make sandwiches, or toast it for a crunchy breakfast option. It also pairs beautifully with soups and stews, soaking up flavors and adding a comforting element to your meal.
Cooking Techniques
The key techniques in this recipe include proofing the yeast, kneading the dough, and the art of baking. Each step is crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor of the bread.
Ingredient Substitutions
For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour can be used in place of bread flour, and a flaxseed egg can substitute the regular egg to make it vegan-friendly.
Make Ahead Tips
The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight for the first rise. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor of the bread.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Avanti Bread on a rustic wooden board for a charming presentation. You can also brush the top with a mixture of egg wash and sprinkle with seeds or oats before baking for an artisanal touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Avanti Bread pairs wonderfully with both sweet and savory dishes. Try it with a creamy pasta, a hearty salad, or simply with jam and butter for a delightful treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in aluminum foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A serving of Avanti Bread contains approximately 160 calories. This makes it a moderate option for those counting calories, fitting well into a balanced diet.
Carbohydrates
A single serving of Avanti Bread is rich in carbohydrates, providing the energy needed to fuel your day. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a substantial source of quick energy.
Fats
Avanti Bread is low in fats, with each serving containing about 1 gram of fat. The minimal amount of vegetable oil used in the recipe contributes to this low-fat content, making it a heart-healthy option for those monitoring their fat intake.
Proteins
Each serving of Avanti Bread provides around 4 grams of protein, contributed by the bread flour. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making this bread a beneficial part of your diet.
Vitamins and minerals
Avanti Bread is a source of several vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins from the yeast and flour, which are important for energy metabolism. It also contains minerals such as iron for healthy blood and selenium, an antioxidant that supports immune function.
Alergens
This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (gluten) and eggs. Those with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this bread or seek suitable substitutions.
Summary
Overall, Avanti Bread is a nutritious option that provides carbohydrates for energy, proteins for tissue repair, and a low amount of fats. It also offers essential vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.
Summary
Avanti Bread is a timeless recipe that brings the joy of baking into your home. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, it's a wonderful way to introduce the art of bread-making into your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a meal, Avanti Bread is sure to delight with its delicious taste and comforting texture.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory like a beautiful painting hanging on the walls of my mind. It was a warm summer day, with the sun shining brightly and a gentle breeze rustling the leaves of the trees outside my kitchen window. I had been sorting through a stack of old recipe cards that day, a task I often enjoyed as it always brought back fond memories of loved ones and special occasions.
As I sifted through the cards, my eyes landed on one that was unlike any other. The card was yellowed with age, with faded writing that was barely legible. It was a recipe for Avanti Bread, a bread that I had never heard of before. Intrigued, I carefully studied the ingredients and instructions, feeling a sense of excitement building within me.
I remembered the day vividly when I learned how to make Avanti Bread. It was many years ago, during a visit to my dear friend Maria's house. Maria was a talented cook and baker, and she had invited me over to teach me some of her favorite recipes. As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, I was greeted by the warm aroma of freshly baked bread.
Maria smiled warmly at me as she pulled a loaf of Avanti Bread out of the oven. The bread was a beautiful golden brown, with a crust that crackled as she sliced into it. She handed me a piece, still warm from the oven, and I took a bite. The bread was light and fluffy, with a hint of sweetness that lingered on my tongue.
"It's Avanti Bread," Maria explained, seeing the look of delight on my face. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Would you like to learn how to make it?"
I nodded eagerly, my heart filled with gratitude for the opportunity to learn from such a skilled baker. Maria guided me through each step of the process, from mixing the dough to shaping and baking the loaf. As we worked side by side, she shared stories of her family and the traditions that had been woven into the fabric of their lives.
I listened intently, soaking in every word and every gesture as Maria imparted her knowledge to me. I watched as she kneaded the dough with practiced hands, her movements smooth and rhythmic. I learned how to judge the consistency of the dough by touch, adding flour or water as needed to achieve the perfect texture.
As the bread baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with its irresistible aroma, Maria shared with me the secret ingredient that gave Avanti Bread its unique flavor. It was a blend of spices and herbs that had been carefully chosen to complement the sweetness of the dough. Maria explained the significance of each ingredient, how it added depth and complexity to the bread.
When the bread was finally ready, Maria sliced into it and offered me a piece. I closed my eyes as I took a bite, savoring the flavors that danced on my palate. The bread was like nothing I had ever tasted before, a symphony of tastes and textures that left me longing for more.
I thanked Maria profusely for sharing her recipe with me, promising to cherish it always. As I left her house that day, a loaf of freshly baked Avanti Bread in hand, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had learned a new skill, one that would bring joy and nourishment to my own family for years to come.
And so, the recipe for Avanti Bread became a cherished treasure in my collection, a reminder of the day I learned from a dear friend and master baker. Every time I bake a loaf of Avanti Bread, I am transported back to that sunny summer day, to the warmth and generosity that Maria showed me. And as I share the bread with my loved ones, I pass on not just a recipe, but a piece of my heart and soul.