AFTER THIS RECIPE, YOU WILL NO LONGER BUY BREAD YOU’LL MAKE IT AT HOME
Introduction
There is something magical about pulling a warm loaf of homemade bread from your oven. The aroma fills your home, the crust sings as it cools, and the first slice—soft, steamy, and comforting—reminds you that the simplest foods can be the most extraordinary. This fail-proof recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a rustic, bakery-quality loaf. Once you try it, store-bought bread simply won’t compare.
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Ingredients & Quantities
4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil
1 tablespoon (10 g) dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/3 cups (320 ml) warm water
4 3/4 cups (570 g) plain flour
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
Pour the warm water into a large bowl. Add the dry yeast and stir gently. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough
Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spoon or your hands until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf or round boule, and place it on a parchment-lined baking tray or into a loaf pan.
6. Second Rise
Cover again and let it rise for 30–40 minutes.
7. Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool & Enjoy
Let the bread cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Origin & Cultural Significance
Bread is one of humanity’s oldest foods—dating back over 10,000 years. It is a symbol of nourishment, hospitality, and community across cultures. From the Middle Eastern flatbreads to European artisan loaves, bread has always been a staple that brings people together. This simple homemade loaf carries forward that timeless tradition: turning basic grains into something warm, comforting, and satisfying.
Description
This bread boasts a crisp, golden crust and a tender, airy interior. The olive oil adds softness and depth of flavor, while the slow rise creates beautiful texture. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, dipping into soups, or enjoying warm with butter.
Optional Additions
Customize your loaf with:
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
Garlic granules
Sesame or poppy seeds
Sun-dried tomatoes
Olives
Honey for a slightly sweet loaf
Whole grains for added texture
Tips for Success
Don’t skip the yeast activation—it ensures a high rise.
Warm water, not hot (ideal: 105–110°F / 40–43°C).
Use quality olive oil for better flavor.
Let it cool fully before storing to prevent sogginess.
If the dough is sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time; too much will make it dense.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice, assuming 12 slices)
Calories: 150–170
Carbohydrates: 28–30 g
Protein: 4–5 g
Fat: 3–4 g
Fiber: 1–2 g
Sodium: 140–160 mg
(Values vary based on add-ins and slice thickness.)
Conclusion
With this recipe, baking bread becomes easy, rewarding, and delicious. The ingredients are simple, the method is beginner-friendly, and the result tastes like something from an artisan bakery. You’ll surprise yourself with how effortless it is to create a loaf that beats anything found on supermarket shelves.
Recommendation
Make two loaves: one for today and one to freeze. Because once your family tastes this bread, it disappears fast! Pair it with homemade soups, fresh salads, or your favorite spreads.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Homemade bread is the perfect balance between comfort and wholesome living. You control the ingredients, skip the preservatives, and savor every warm, fresh bite. It’s an indulgence you can feel good about—nourishing, natural, and deeply satisfying.
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