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
- In a small bowl, whisk together the yeast, water, tsp of flour and sugar. Set aside until bubbles form
- In the meantime, use your fingertips to rub the margarine into the flour, then add a pinch of salt
- 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)
- 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.
- 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
- Transfer to a pre lined baking tray and leave to double in size for an hour
- 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
- Place in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Then turn the heat down to 180c and bake for another 10
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack. Enjoy within 2-3 days!
