Sweet Yeast. Mrs. Susie Seffner. Recipe

Sweet yeast is a delightful recipe that has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and comfort to many homes. This recipe traces its roots back to the early 19th century, where it was commonly enjoyed as a staple in households across America. It was a way to make the most of simple ingredients and create a flavorful and versatile addition to many dishes.

Fun Fact: Did you know that yeast has been used in baking for over 5,000 years? Ancient Egyptians were known to use wild yeast to make their bread, which eventually led to the discovery of leavened bread and the various forms of yeast we use today.

To begin making this sweet yeast recipe, start by boiling four large potatoes in two quarts of water. Allow the potatoes to cook until they are soft and tender. Once done, remove them from the water and mash them until smooth.

Next, add one cup of sugar, one-half cup of salt, and one-half cup of flour to the mashed potatoes. These ingredients will add sweetness and enhance the flavor of the yeast. Mix everything together well.

In a separate pot, boil one pint of hops in the water that the potatoes were boiled in. Hops are commonly used in brewing beer and provide a unique flavor to the yeast. Allow the hops to simmer in the water until the strength is extracted.

Once the hops have boiled, strain the liquid and pour it into the jar with the other ingredients. Stir everything together thoroughly.

It is important to wait until the mixture has cooled before adding the yeast. You can use one cup of yeast or one cake of dry yeast, depending on what is readily available to you. Adding the yeast at this stage will trigger the fermentation process, allowing the yeast to rise and create a light and fluffy texture.

After adding the yeast, cover the jar and let the mixture sit in a cool place. The yeast will slowly rise over time, resulting in a fluffy and fragrant mixture.

Once the yeast has risen, you can store it in the jar in a cool place. This sweet yeast can be used in a variety of recipes, such as sweet breads, cinnamon rolls, and even homemade donuts. Its versatility makes it a staple in many kitchens, adding a touch of sweetness to baked goods.

Similar to sweet yeast, there are other yeast-based recipes that you might enjoy exploring. One such recipe is sourdough, which is made using a fermented dough starter. Unlike sweet yeast, sourdough has a tangy flavor profile and is often used to make artisan breads.

Another popular yeast-based recipe is pizza dough. Pizza dough requires yeast to rise and create the iconic chewy texture associated with pizza crusts. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized with various toppings and enjoyed by the whole family.

In conclusion, sweet yeast is a cherished recipe that has stood the test of time. It brings a touch of tradition and history to every dish it is used in. So why not give this recipe a try and add a hint of sweetness to your favorite baked goods?