Easy Everyday Dinner Bread

The Easy Everyday Dinner Bread is a testament to the fact that homemade bread can be both simple to make and incredibly rewarding. This recipe strips away the complexity often associated with bread baking, offering a straightforward path to a warm, aromatic loaf that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re a novice baker or someone with more experience, this bread requires minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers maximum flavor and comfort. Ideal for accompanying a hearty soup, a vibrant salad, or simply enjoyed on its own with a dab of butter, this bread will become a cherished addition to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar

1 teaspoon (5g) salt

1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast

1 cup (240ml) warm water (approximately 110°F or 45°C)

2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, plus extra for greasing

Optional: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or dried herbs for topping

Instructions:

PREPARING THE DOUGH:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2. Add Water and Oil: Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as you knead, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the bread dense.

FIRST RISE:

1. Let the Dough Rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

SHAPING AND SECOND RISE:

1. Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a round loaf or an oblong, depending on your preference and the shape of your baking dish.
2. Prepare for Second Rise: Place the shaped dough on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, lightly sprinkle the loaf with water and then apply your choice of toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried herbs).
3. Let it Rise Again: Cover the dough loosely with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes, or until it has nearly doubled in size again.

BAKING:

1. Preheat the Oven: About halfway through the second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the Bread: Once the dough has finished its second rise, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
3. Cooling: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This waiting time allows the bread’s structure to set and makes for easier slicing.

Tips for Success:

• Water Temperature: Ensure the water is warm but not too hot to touch, as too high a temperature can kill the yeast, preventing the bread from rising.
• Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, giving the bread its structure and chewy texture.
• Proofing Spot: A warm, draft-free spot is ideal for rising. If your kitchen is cool, the oven with the light on (but the heat off) can be a good alternative.

This Easy Everyday Dinner Bread is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting reminder of the joys of home cooking. With its crispy crust, soft interior, and the satisfaction that comes from baking your own bread, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process of creating something from scratch and the delicious results that follow.