Whole-wheat Bread Recipe

Whole-Wheat Bread Recipe

History and Fun Facts:
Whole-wheat bread has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It has been a staple in many cultures and is known for its hearty and nutty flavor. The use of whole wheat flour in bread-making can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Mesopotamia. Whole-wheat bread is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits, as it contains the bran, germ, and endosperm of the wheat kernel.

Did you know that whole-wheat bread provides more fiber and nutrients compared to white bread? It is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whole-wheat bread also has a lower glycemic index, making it a favorable choice for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.

Now, let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make delicious whole-wheat bread.

Ingredients:
- 1 pint boiling water
- 1 pint sweet milk
- 1/2 Fleischman's yeast cake dissolved in lukewarm water
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- Flour

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the boiling water and sweet milk and allow them to cool until lukewarm.

2. Dissolve half of a Fleischman's yeast cake in lukewarm water and add it to the milk and water mixture.

3. Add the salt to the mixture and stir well.

4. Gradually add enough whole wheat flour to make a thin batter consistency.

5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit in a warm place for three to four hours. This step allows the yeast to activate and ferment, leading to a better rise and flavor in the bread.

6. After the fermentation time, stir in as much whole wheat flour as possible with a large spoon until the dough becomes too thick to stir.

7. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.

8. Grease three loaf pans generously with oil or butter. Shape the dough into three equal-sized loaves and place them into the greased pans.

9. Cover the pans again with the kitchen towel and let the dough rise until it doubles in size. This rise may take one to two hours, depending on the room temperature.

10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the bread is rising.

11. Once the dough has doubled in size, carefully place the pans into the preheated oven.

12. Bake the bread for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size of the loaves. The bread should have a golden-brown crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

13. 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.

Enjoy your homemade whole-wheat bread! It is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply as a side dish with soups and stews.

Similar recipe dishes you might enjoy:

1. Multigrain Bread: Similarly to whole-wheat bread, multigrain bread incorporates various whole grains such as oats, barley, and flaxseeds into the dough. This results in a bread with a diverse texture and rich flavor profile.

2. Seeded Bread: This recipe adds a variety of seeds, such as sunflower, pumpkin, and sesame seeds, to the whole-wheat bread dough. The seeds not only provide a delightful crunch but also add nutritional value.

3. Honey Whole-Wheat Bread: For those with a sweet tooth, honey whole-wheat bread is a great alternative. It combines the goodness of whole-wheat flour with the natural sweetness of honey, creating a moist and flavorful loaf.

4. Whole-Wheat Cinnamon Raisin Bread: Take your whole-wheat bread to the next level by incorporating cinnamon and raisins into the dough. This sweet and aromatic bread is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Now, go ahead and explore these similar dishes to further satisfy your love for wholesome and delicious bread!