The Inspiring Story Behind This Healthy Bread

There’s something magical about baking bread from scratch—especially a loaf that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. This Healthy Seed and Bran Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of whole ingredients, simple baking, and the profound satisfaction of creating something wholesome with your own hands.

Designed for health-conscious food lovers, this bread transforms a handful of nutrient-rich ingredients into a hearty, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any meal. Each slice tells a story of mindful eating and the joy of homemade goodness.

Ingredients

For the Bread

• Water: 300ml (1 1/4 cups)
• Wheat Bran: 150g (1 1/2 cups)
• Flax Seeds: 25g (3 tablespoons)
• Psyllium Husk: 25g (3 tablespoons)
• Baking Powder: 10g (2 teaspoons)
• Salt: 4g (3/4 teaspoon)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Bread

1. Create the Seed Base
   • In a medium mixing bowl, combine flax seeds and psyllium husk
   • Mix thoroughly
   • Pour in water
   • Stir well
   • Let mixture sit for 10-15 minutes
   • Watch as it thickens and develops a gel-like consistency
   • This process helps bind the ingredients and create texture
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients
   • In a separate large mixing bowl, combine:
     • Wheat bran
     • Salt
     • Baking powder
   • Whisk ingredients together
   • Ensure even distribution of baking powder and salt
   • Break up any potential clumps in the wheat bran
3. Combine and Knead
   • Pour dry ingredient mixture into thickened seed base
   • Mix thoroughly
   • Use hands to knead the dough
   • Work until mixture becomes smooth and compact
   • Dough will be dense and may feel different from traditional bread dough
4. Shape and Prepare for Baking
   • Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour
   • Transfer dough to floured surface
   • Shape into a cohesive loaf
   • Make 5-6 shallow slashes across the top of the loaf
     • These help with even baking and create an attractive appearance
   • Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
5. Bake the Bread
   • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
   • Place bread in preheated oven
   • Bake for 45 minutes
   • Look for a golden-brown exterior
   • Bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom
6. Rest and Cool
   • After baking, turn off oven
   • Leave bread in the oven for an additional hour
   • This slow cooling helps develop flavor and texture
   • Remove from oven
   • Transfer to a wire rack
   • Allow to cool completely
   • Wrap in a clean kitchen cloth
   • Let rest before slicing

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/12 of the loaf)

• Calories: 70-90
• Protein: 3-4g
• Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Fat: 2-3g
• Fiber: 5-6g
• Omega-3 (from flax seeds): 1-2g

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Resting Time: 10-15 minutes Cooking Time: 45 minutes Cooling Time: 1 hour Total Time: Approximately 2 hours Servings: 12 slices

Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks

• Seed Hydration: Allow seeds to fully absorb water
• Mixing Technique: Knead thoroughly for best texture
• Slash Design: Use a sharp knife for clean top slashes
• Cooling Importance: Patient cooling develops better flavor
• Storage Tip: Wrap in cloth to maintain moisture

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Seed Alternatives: Try chia seeds or hemp seeds
• Flour Variation: Add small amount of almond flour
• Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs
• Seed Boost: Add sunflower or pumpkin seeds
• Spice It Up: Include ground flaxseed or cinnamon

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is this bread gluten-free? A: While wheat bran contains gluten, use gluten-free bran for a gluten-free version.

Q2: How long will the bread keep? A: Store at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Q3: Can I toast this bread? A: Absolutely! Toasting enhances its nutty flavor.

Q4: Why use psyllium husk? A: It acts as a binder and adds extra fiber.

Q5: Can I freeze this bread? A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in cloth or paper bag for 3-4 days
• Refrigeration: Keep in airtight container for up to 1 week
• Freezing: Freeze whole or sliced for up to 3 months
• Prep Ahead: Mix dry ingredients in advance
• Serving Suggestion: Best enjoyed slightly warm

Embrace the art of wholesome baking with this nutrient-packed, delicious bread!