Bread isn’t something I tend to buy, and if I do fancy something ‘bread-like’ I tend to go for either bagels or pitta. However I had a sudden urge to make my own bread, and despite my failed attempts in the past, this one turned out perfect! I’ve found the best way to prepare my yeast which I think adds to its success. Give this a go and let me know what you think!

Ingredients

• 7g yeast sachet
• 60ml lukewarm water
• 1 tsp flour
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 500g strong bread flour (plus extra for kneading & dusting)
• 25g margarine
• Pinch of sea salt
• 320ml lukewarm water

Method

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yeast, water, tsp of flour and sugar. Set aside until bubbles form
2. In the meantime, use your fingertips to rub the margarine into the flour, then add a pinch of salt
3. When the bubbles have formed on the yeast mixture, add this to the flour along with a little bit of the water. Use your hands to mix, gradually adding in more water until a dough forms (you may not need to use all the water)
4. Transfer to a clean floured surface and knead for 10-15 minutes, then place in a bowl and cover with a damp tea towel. Leave to rise for an hour.
5. Remove dough from the bowl, knock back and shape into a loaf: flatten the dough into a rectangle. With the long side facing you fold each end into the middle then roll like a swiss roll so that you have a smooth top with a seam along the base. Very gently roll with the heel of your hands
6. Transfer to a pre lined baking tray and leave to double in size for an hour
7. Preheat oven to 200c and sprinkle a little water over the loaf. Dust over with flour then use a knife to cut slashes into the top
8. Place in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Then turn the heat down to 180c and bake for another 10
9. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack. Enjoy within 2-3 days!