Graham Bread. Mrs. A. C. Ault. Recipe

Graham bread is a delicious and nutritious type of bread that is made using graham flour, buttermilk, and a few other key ingredients. This recipe has a rich history and is named after its creator, Sylvester Graham, who was a dietary reformer and advocate of whole-grain consumption during the 19th century. Graham bread gained popularity due to its health benefits and its distinct flavor.

Now let's dive into the recipe itself. Here is a step-by-step guide to making Mrs. A. C. Ault's version of Graham Bread:

Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoonful soda
- 1 tablespoonful butter
- A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and set it aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined. Set aside.

4. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the soda in a little bit of warm water. This will help activate the soda and make the bread rise.

5. Add the melted butter to the dry ingredients and mix well. Then, pour in the buttermilk and egg mixture, followed by the dissolved soda. Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and a thick batter is formed.

6. Transfer the batter to the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon.

7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The bread is ready when a toothpick or knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Fun Facts about Graham Bread:
- Graham bread is named after Sylvester Graham, who believed in the importance of consuming whole grains for optimal health. He promoted a vegetarian diet and emphasized the use of whole wheat flour instead of refined flour.
- Graham flour is made by grinding the entire wheat grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. This makes it much more nutritious compared to refined flour.
- Traditional graham bread was very plain and simple, having no sugar or fat added. However, modern variations often include sweeteners and fats to enhance the flavor and texture.

Similar Recipes:
1. Whole Wheat Bread: If you enjoy the wholesome goodness of graham bread, you might also like to try making whole wheat bread. It is made similarly but with the use of whole wheat flour instead of graham flour.
2. Multigrain Bread: For a more diverse flavor and texture, try making multigrain bread. It uses a combination of different grains, such as oats, barley, and flaxseed, to create a hearty and nutritious loaf.

Remember, graham bread is perfect for enjoying on its own, toasted with butter, or as a sandwich bread. Get creative and experiment with different spreads and toppings to enhance its taste even more. Enjoy your homemade graham bread and savor the flavors of this historical and wholesome recipe!