Whole Wheat Bread

Ingredients

• • Water: 1 cup (230 ml)
  • Fresh yeast: ¾ tsp. (3 g) or dry yeast: ½ tsp. (2 g)

 

• • Sugar (optional): 1 tsp. (4 g)
  • Bread flour: 1 ½ cups (220 g)
  • Whole wheat flour: ¾ cup (100 g)

 

• Salt: 1 tsp. (6 g)

Directions

• • Activate the yeast: In a bowl, combine the water and sugar (if using). Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Stir well to combine.

 

• • Combine wet and dry ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough comes together.
  • Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.
  • Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

 

• • Shape the dough: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for an additional 30-40 minutes.
  • Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

 

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with butter or jam for a classic breakfast.
  • Toast it and top with mashed avocado and a poached egg for a healthy brunch.
  • Use it for making sandwiches or paninis with your favorite fillings.

 

• Pair it with soups and stews for a hearty meal.
• Slice it thin and serve as an accompaniment to cheese and charcuterie.

Cooking Tips

• • Ensure the yeast is fresh to get the best rise.

 

• • If you don’t have fresh yeast, dry yeast works just as well – just use half the amount.
  • Don’t skip the resting time! It allows the dough to rise properly for a soft, fluffy bread.
  • You can experiment with adding herbs or seeds for extra flavor.

 

• For a slightly sweeter bread, increase the sugar to 1-2 tablespoons.

Nutritional Benefits

• • High in fiber: Whole wheat flour provides more fiber than white flour, which is beneficial for digestion.
  • Rich in vitamins and minerals: Whole wheat contains B vitamins, magnesium, and iron.

 

• Supports heart health: The fiber in whole wheat flour can help lower cholesterol levels.
• Energy-boosting: The complex carbohydrates in this bread provide sustained energy.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: Yes

 

• • Vegan: Yes
  • Dairy-Free: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: No (contains gluten from wheat flour)

 

Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 12 slices per loaf)

• • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g

 

• • Fat: 1g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 1g

 

Storage

• • Room temperature: Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed bag or bread box for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Toast slices directly from the freezer.
  • Refrigeration: Bread can be refrigerated, but it may dry out more quickly.

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Simple ingredients: Just a few basic pantry items are needed to make this delicious homemade bread.
  • Whole wheat goodness: It’s a healthier option than store-bought white bread, with added fiber and nutrients.
  • Versatile: Perfect for any meal, from sandwiches to sides or breakfast toast.

 

• Fresh and warm: There’s nothing like the smell and taste of homemade bread straight from the oven.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding herbs, seeds, or other flours.

Conclusion

This Whole Wheat Bread recipe offers a healthier alternative to store-bought bread, providing the benefits of whole grains and fiber in a soft, fluffy loaf. It’s simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients, and the result is a deliciously fresh bread perfect for any occasion. Whether used for sandwiches or served with a meal, this bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of homemade bread!