Soft And Fluffy Homemade Bread

Soft and Fluffy Homemade Bread

Table of Contents

Ingredients

- Wet Ingredients:
  - - 200 ml warm milk
    - 200 ml warm water
    - 1 tablespoon sugar
  - 7 g dry yeast
  - 30 ml vegetable oil

Dry Ingredients:
- - 500 g all-purpose flour (first addition)
  - 100 g all-purpose flour (second addition)
  - 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast:
  - - In a large mixing bowl, combine 200 ml warm milk, 200 ml warm water, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 7 g dry yeast. Stir well until the yeast and sugar are dissolved.
    - Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
  - - Once the yeast is activated, add 30 ml vegetable oil and mix again.
    - Sift 500 g of flour into the bowl, then add 1 teaspoon salt. Mix with a spatula until the dough begins to come together.
  - Sift another 100 g of flour into the mixture and continue mixing with your hands until the dough is medium soft and forms a ball.
3. Knead the Dough:
  - - Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  - Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with cling film or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Dough:
  - - After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air and knead it briefly until smooth.
  - Divide the dough into 2 equal parts and form each piece into a ball. Cover and let them rest for another 20 minutes.
  - Dust your work surface with flour and roll out each ball into a rectangular shape as shown in the video. Fold the edges inward and roll the dough tightly into a log. Shape it into a ball and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with the second dough ball.

1. Final Rise and Bake:
  - - Cover the shaped loaves with a towel and let them rise for another 20 minutes.
    - Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Brush the surface of each loaf with water and dust lightly with flour. Make a shallow incision on top with a sharp knife or blade.
    - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Let the loaves cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing.
2. Serve and Enjoy:
  - Slice the bread once it has cooled down a bit. Enjoy this soft and fluffy bread with your favorite spreads, soups, or as a sandwich base.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey for a delicious breakfast treat.
Perfect for making sandwiches or dipping into soups and stews.

Cooking Tips

- Proper Kneading: Ensure the dough is kneaded well until smooth; this helps develop the gluten, making the bread light and fluffy.

Accurate Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the milk and water are at the correct temperature (about 37-40°C / 98-104°F) for optimal yeast activation.