Fresh home baked bread
I love the smell of freshly baked bread as it comes out of the oven and even more so, when you roughly break off the end and spread with loads of butter. Or maybe even some of your own homemade jam? Definitely a nostalgia moment I think. Did you know that baking your own bread just couldn't be simpler? Here's an easy recipe to get you started and if you're feeling really adventurous then why not try adding some fillings like sun dried tomatoes or olives.
You will need (to make one large loaf or lots of small rolls):
300g Strong white flour
300g Strong wholemeal flour
15g fresh yeast or one sachet of dried active yeast (follow instructions on the packet)
30g Oil or butter
Lukewarm water (1 part boiling to 2 parts cold), about 300ml but you might need more or less
A pinch of salt
Preparation:
Put the two flours together in a large bowl along with a pinch of salt and other seasoning if you wish. Mix in the butter or oil into the flour using your fingertips like you are making breadcrumbs. Make a well in the centre of the flour and put in the fresh yeast. (If you are using the packet stuff then follow the instructions on the pack). Pour in a tiny amount of water, enough to melt the yeast and crumble the yeast in your hands. Gradually pour in some more water, a little at a time and draw in the flour from the sides. Slowly the mixture will form into a soft, pliable but not sticky dough. Knead for about 5 to 10 minutes and then put into a clean bowl and cover the bowl with cling film. Leave in a warm place to prove. The dough with rise, once it has doubled in size, lift it on to a floured work surface and knock back. Knead again for 5 (and if you want to add any fillings then nows the time to do it, just knead in) then form into a loaf shape or rolls. Put on to a greased baking tray and again, leave to prove until doubled in size. Preheat your oven to gas mark 4/ 160*C and bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until the loaf has turned a golden colour and when knocked on the bottom sounds hollow. Now enjoy with lashings of butter and homemade jam!
