Homemade Bread Recipe

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4-Ingredient Homemade Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 10g salt
• 10g fresh yeast (or 7g dried yeast)
• 350ml lukewarm water

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast (if using dried yeast)
   
   • In a small bowl, mix the yeast with a little of the lukewarm water and a pinch of flour.
   • Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
     (If using fresh yeast, crumble it directly into the flour in the next step.)
3. Mix the Dough
   
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Add the yeast mixture (or fresh yeast) and the rest of the lukewarm water.
   • Mix with a spoon or your hand until a rough dough forms.
5. Knead the Dough
   
   • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
     (If you press your finger into it, the dough should spring back slowly.)
7. First Rise (Proofing)
   
   • Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl.
   • Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap.
   • Let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
9. Shape the Loaf
   
   • Punch down the dough to release the air.
   • Shape it into a round or oblong loaf.
   • Place on a floured baking tray or in a loaf tin.
11. Second Rise
    
    • Cover again and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffed up.
    • While it rises, preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
13. Bake the Bread
    
    • Dust the top with a little flour, and make a few slashes with a sharp knife for that artisan look.
    • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
    • Tap the bottom — it should sound hollow when done!
15. Cool & Enjoy
    
    • Let your loaf cool on a wire rack before slicing.
    • Serve warm with butter, soup, or your favorite jam.

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Tips for Success

• For a crispier crust, place a small oven-safe bowl of water on the bottom rack while baking — the steam makes the crust perfect.
• You can swap some white flour for wholemeal or rye for a heartier flavor.