Quick No-Knead Wholemeal Bread

Quick No-Knead Wholemeal Bread

Ingredients

• • 400 ml warm water
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 13 g dry yeast (about 1 tablespoon)

• • 200 g wholemeal flour (1 2/3 cups)
  • 300 g bread flour (2 1/2 cups)
  • 2 teaspoons salt (12 g)

• • 20 ml olive oil (1 1/3 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon black cumin seeds (optional)

Directions

1. 1. 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.
   2. Add Dry Ingredients:
      • • Add the wholemeal flour, bread flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a spatula or spoon until combined; no kneading is required.

   3. Incorporate Olive Oil:
      • Pour in the olive oil and mix until the dough absorbs it fully. The dough will be sticky, which is normal.

1. 1. 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.
   2. Add Toppings:
      • • 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.

   3. 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.

1. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

• • Pair with soups, salads, or simply enjoy with butter and jam for breakfast.

• This bread makes excellent sandwiches or toast.

Cooking Tips

• • 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

• • 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)

• • Calories: 150

• • 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

• • 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.