Easy Homemade Bread Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:
100 ml warm water
8 g (1 teaspoon) sugar
8 g (1 teaspoon) dry yeast
50 g (about 3 tablespoons) bread flour
500 g (4 cups) bread flour
8 g (1.5 teaspoons) salt
350 ml warm water
30 ml (2 tablespoons) olive oil

Directions

Activate the Yeast:
In a bowl, mix 100 ml warm water with 1 teaspoon sugar and 1 teaspoon dry yeast. Stir until dissolved and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until frothy.

Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 500 g bread flour and 8 g salt. Make a well in the center.
Once the yeast is activated, add it to the flour mixture along with 350 ml warm water and 30 ml olive oil.
Mix until a soft dough forms.

Knead and Rise:
Cover the bowl with cling film and let it rise for 20-30 minutes in a warm place.
Moisten your hands with oil, then fold the dough 6-7 times. Cover again and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes.

Shape the Bread:
Dust your work surface with flour. Gently scrape the dough out of the bowl and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
Roll each piece without pressing too hard and shape them as desired.

Final Rise:
Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for 30 minutes.

Bake:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Place a bowl of boiling water in the oven for steam.
Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and crusty.

Serving Suggestions
Enjoy fresh slices with butter or olive oil.
Use as a base for sandwiches or serve with soups and salads.

Cooking Tips
For a crustier loaf, add steam to the oven by placing a pan of boiling water inside while baking.
Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing to maintain its structure.

Nutritional Benefits
This bread is made with simple ingredients, providing carbohydrates for energy and healthy fats from olive oil.
Using whole grain bread flour adds fiber and nutrients to your diet.