Yeast Bread

Yeast Bread Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 1 loaf

Introduction

Yeast bread is a classic and versatile type of bread that is loved by many. It is made using yeast as a leavening agent, which helps the bread rise and gives it a light and airy texture. Yeast bread can be enjoyed on its own, as a side dish, or used to make sandwiches and toast.

History

Yeast bread has been around for centuries and is a staple in many cultures around the world. The use of yeast as a leavening agent dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was used to make bread rise. Over time, different variations of yeast bread have been created, each with its own unique flavors and textures.

Ingredients

1 package of rapid rise yeast
3 tbsp of sugar
1 cup of hot water (120°F (49°C) to 130°F)
3 tsp of vegetable oil
3 tbsp of instant non-fat dry milk
1 tsp of salt
3.5 cups of all-purpose flour

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
In a large bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and water. Let it stand until foamy.
Add oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in nonfat dry milk, salt, and enough flour to make the dough stiff enough to pull away from the edges of the bowl.
On a floured surface, knead the dough for 2–4 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Roll the dough into a 12 x 7-inch rectangle. Roll it up from the narrow end to form a loaf and pinch the edges to seal.
Place the loaf in a greased 8.5 x 4.5-inch glass loaf pan and cover it.
Fill a large shallow pan halfway with boiling water and place it on the countertop. Place a baking sheet over the pan of boiling water.
Set the covered bread dough on the baking sheet and let it rise for 20 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Bake in a 375°F (191°C) oven for 25 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
Remove the loaf from the pan and cool it on a rack. Slice it with a serrated knife before serving.

Variations

Add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.
Mix in nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for added texture and nutrition.
Use whole wheat flour or other types of flour for a different taste and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure the water you use to activate the yeast is at the right temperature (120°F to 130°F) to ensure that the yeast activates properly.

- Knead the dough for at least 2-4 minutes to develop the gluten and create a smooth and elastic texture.

- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place to ensure that it doubles in size.

- Use a serrated knife to slice the bread for a clean cut.

Serving Suggestions

Yeast bread can be enjoyed on its own with butter or jam, used to make sandwiches, or toasted for breakfast.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading: Knead the dough to develop gluten and create a smooth texture.

- Rising: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place until it doubles in size.

- Baking: Bake the bread in a preheated oven until it is golden brown and cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Active dry yeast can be used instead of rapid rise yeast.

- Whole milk can be used instead of non-fat dry milk.

- Olive oil or melted butter can be used instead of vegetable oil.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for yeast bread can be made ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve yeast bread sliced on a platter with butter or olive oil for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs or seeds for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Yeast bread pairs well with soups, salads, and pasta dishes. It also goes well with cheeses, cured meats, and spreads.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store yeast bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of yeast bread contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of yeast bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of yeast bread contains approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of yeast bread contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Yeast bread is a good source of iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.

Alergens

Yeast bread contains gluten from the flour, which may be a concern for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.

Summary

Yeast bread is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

Yeast bread is a classic and versatile type of bread that is loved for its light and airy texture. It can be enjoyed in many ways and is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can make delicious yeast bread at home.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a simple recipe for yeast bread that had been passed down through generations in my family. I remember watching my own grandmother knead the dough and shape it into loaves as a child, and I was always fascinated by the way the bread would rise and bake into a golden brown perfection.

I knew that I had to learn how to make this bread myself, so I asked my grandmother to teach me. She was more than happy to share her knowledge with me, and so we spent an entire afternoon in her cozy kitchen, mixing flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt together to create the perfect dough.

As I kneaded the dough, my grandmother shared stories with me about how she had learned to make this bread from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each woman adding their own little twist to make it their own.

After the dough had risen and been shaped into loaves, we placed them in the oven to bake. The smell of freshly baked bread filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the results of our hard work.

When the bread was finally done, we pulled it out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. I sliced a piece off and slathered it with butter, taking a bite and closing my eyes in sheer delight. The bread was soft and fluffy, with a slight tang from the yeast that made it truly irresistible.

From that day on, I made it a point to bake this yeast bread regularly. It became a staple in my own home, and I loved sharing it with friends and family who would always rave about how delicious it was.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding a little more sugar here and a bit of honey there to suit my own taste. But the basic ingredients and method have remained the same, a constant reminder of the women who came before me and the love and care they put into making this bread.

Now, as I pass this recipe on to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will carry on the tradition and make this yeast bread for your own family. It is a simple recipe, but one that is filled with history and love, and I know that it will bring you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me over the years.

So, roll up your sleeves, dust off your apron, and get ready to knead some dough. I promise you, the end result will be worth every moment spent in the kitchen, and you will create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy baking, my dear.