Quick No-Knead Wholemeal Bread
Table of Contents
Ingredients
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- 400 ml warm water
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 13 g dry yeast (about 1 tablespoon)
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- 200 g wholemeal flour (1 2/3 cups)
- 300 g bread flour (2 1/2 cups)
- 2 teaspoons salt (12 g)
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- 20 ml olive oil (1 1/3 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon black cumin seeds (optional)
Directions
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- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large steel pot or glass bowl, mix warm water, apple cider vinegar, and dry yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
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- Add the wholemeal flour, bread flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a spatula or spoon until combined; no kneading is required.
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- Incorporate Olive Oil:
- Pour in the olive oil and mix until the dough absorbs it fully. The dough will be sticky, which is normal.
- Prepare the Dough:
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- Shape the Dough:
- Sprinkle a little flour on top of the dough to make it easier to handle. Transfer the dough to a 24 cm (9.5-inch) pan lined with baking paper. Use a small saucepan to gently press the dough into shape.
- Add Toppings:
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- Spray or sprinkle water onto the surface of the dough, which helps create a crispy crust. Spread the dough evenly in the pan and sprinkle with sesame and black cumin seeds if using. Make a few shallow scratches or cuts on the surface for decoration.
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- Bake:
- Place the pan in a cold oven (do not preheat) and bake at 200°C (392°F) for 50-55 minutes until the bread is golden brown with a crispy crust.
- Shape the Dough:
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
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- Pair with soups, salads, or simply enjoy with butter and jam for breakfast.
- This bread makes excellent sandwiches or toast.
Cooking Tips
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- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date. If in doubt, let it sit in warm water with a pinch of sugar for 5 minutes to see if it foams.
- Adjust Flour as Needed: Depending on the humidity and flour type, you might need a bit more or less. The dough should be sticky but manageable.
- Add Seeds or Nuts: Customize with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped nuts for added texture.
Nutritional Benefits
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- Wholemeal Flour: Adds fiber and nutrients, making this bread healthier and more filling.
- Olive Oil: A source of healthy fats, adding richness and moisture to the bread.
Dietary Information
- Vegan-Friendly: This bread contains no animal products.
- Low-Sugar: Contains only natural sugars from the flour, making it suitable for low-sugar diets.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, approximately 12 slices per loaf)
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- Calories: 150
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- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 4 g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in a bread box or sealed bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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- Easy and Quick: No need to knead or wait long hours for rising; perfect for last-minute baking.
- Crispy and Soft: Achieves the ideal balance of a crispy crust and a soft, airy inside.
- Versatile: Great for any meal, from breakfast to dinner.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, making it accessible and cost-effective.