Description
Crusty German bread beckons with rustic charm and hearty flavor, promising a delightful journey through traditional baking. Crisp crust and dense crumb invite you to savor each wholesome slice of authentic German culinary heritage.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups (720 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm water
Leavening Agent:
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
Seasoning and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients in a spacious mixing vessel, ensuring even distribution of flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Pour warm water and oil into the dry mixture, gently stirring until a cohesive dough emerges.
- Transfer the soft dough onto a lightly dusted surface and work it with rhythmic kneading motions for approximately 5 minutes until achieving a silky, elastic texture.
- Transfer the dough into a lightly greased container, drape with a soft cloth, and allow it to rest and expand in a warm environment for 30 minutes.
- Heat the oven to 375F (190C), preparing for the bread’s transformation.
- Gently mold the risen dough into a rounded or elongated loaf shape, positioning it carefully on a prepared baking sheet.
- Slide the shaped loaf into the preheated oven, baking for 25-30 minutes until the exterior develops a rich, golden-brown crust and releases a tantalizing aroma.
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool completely on a wire rack, allowing internal steam to settle before slicing.
Notes
- Experiment with different flour types like whole wheat or rye for added nutrition and unique flavor profiles.
- Ensure water temperature is around 110°F (43°C) to activate yeast without killing it, which helps perfect dough rising.
- For a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom oven rack while baking to create steam during the process.
- Consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the dough for a more aromatic and sophisticated German bread experience.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 80 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg