Rolled Oats Bread Recipe

**Rolled Oats Bread Recipe:**

*History and Fun Facts:*

Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, have been a staple in many traditional dishes for centuries. Originating from Scotland, where oats have been cultivated for thousands of years, rolled oats quickly gained popularity due to their versatility and nutritional benefits.

Oats have long been valued for their high fiber content and ability to provide sustained energy throughout the day. Bread made with rolled oats offers a wholesome and satisfying alternative to traditional white bread. The addition of oats also adds a unique texture and flavor to the bread.

Fun fact: Did you know that rolled oats were historically used as a thickening agent in soups and stews before they became a popular breakfast option?

Now, let's move on to the Rolled Oats Bread recipe:

**Ingredients:**

- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 cake of compressed yeast
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons shortening
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt

**Instructions:**

1. Pour the boiling water over the rolled oats in a large bowl. Cover and let them stand until they reach a lukewarm temperature.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the compressed yeast and brown sugar in lukewarm water. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until the yeast activates and becomes frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture, shortening, oatmeal, and water in which it has been swelling to the bowl with the rolled oats. Stir well to combine.
4. Gradually add three cups of flour and the salt to the mixture. Start by adding two cups of flour and knead the dough. Keep adding more flour until the dough forms a smooth and elastic consistency.
5. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and continue kneading for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes soft and pliable.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1-2 hours or until it doubles in bulk.
7. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a loaf.
8. Place the loaves in greased loaf pans, cover them with a kitchen towel, and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until they reach the desired size.
9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for approximately 45 minutes or until they turn golden brown and produce a hollow sound when tapped.
10. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for a few minutes. Then transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

**Similar Recipe Dishes:**

If you enjoy making bread with rolled oats, you may also want to explore other enticing recipes featuring oats. Here are a few similar dishes you might like:

1. Oatmeal Raisin Bread: This delightful bread combines the goodness of rolled oats with the sweet and chewy goodness of raisins. Enjoy it toasted with a smear of butter or use it to create flavorful sandwiches.

2. Oatmeal Bread Rolls: Perfect for individual servings, these soft and fluffy oatmeal bread rolls are a fantastic addition to any meal. They can be enjoyed as dinner rolls or used as sandwich buns.

3. Oatmeal Honey Bread: Add a touch of natural sweetness to your bread by incorporating honey into the recipe. This bread is perfect for a cozy breakfast or a wholesome snack.

Remember, baking is not only a culinary art but also an opportunity for creativity. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to customize your rolled oats bread and make it truly unique. Enjoy your baking journey!