Description:

Bread for Beginners

Source:

Suzanne

Serves/Makes:3 loaves

Ingredients

• 2 cups (475 ml) hot tap water
• 6 to 7 cups (1650 ml) unbleached white flour
• 1 egg
• 3 tbsp (45 ml) light oil
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) salt
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey or molasses
• 2 packages active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (125 ml) warm water
• 1 tsp (5 ml) honey

Preparation

• Measure the 2 cups (475 ml) hot water into a large mixing bowl and add enough flour to make a batter, about 3 cups (700 ml).
• Stir in the egg, oil, salt, and honey or molasses.
• Beat until smooth, cover and set aside.
• Combine the yeast and warm water in a bowl, stirring until dissolved.
• Add honey and 2 tbsp (30 ml) flour, beat well, and let stand until bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
• Add to the batter and beat thoroughly.
• Gradually add sufficient flour to make a workable dough.
• Turn onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.
• Place in a warm bowl brushed with melted butter (or margarine), turning to coat the top.
• Cover loosely with plastic wrap and a towel and let rise 20 minutes.
• If there is time, punch down the dough, and let rise again 20 minutes to produce a smoother texture.
• Butter (or margarine) three 8 1/2 inch loaf pans.
• Divide the dough into thirds, form into loaves, and place in the pans.
• Place pans in a 100 degree (40 C.) oven to rise for 30 minutes.
• Raise temperature to 375 degrees (200 C.) and bake loaves 40-45 minutes.

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