Imagine the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, beckoning you to the kitchen with promises of warmth and comfort. There’s something truly special about creating your own bread from scratch – the soft dough between your fingers, the anticipation of that first perfect slice. Today, we bring you a recipe that embodies the essence of homely goodness and simplicity: Easy From Scratch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 packet of active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups of warm water
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 2 teaspoons of salt
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture and give it a quick stir.
3. Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition until a sticky dough forms.
4. Place the dough on a floured surface and knead vigorously for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and shape it into a loaf or desired shape.
8. Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet and score the top with a sharp knife.
9. Let the dough rise again for another 30 minutes while the oven preheats.
10. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Savor the moment when you cut into your freshly baked bread, the crust crackling softly, releasing steam and the enticing scent of warm dough. Whether enjoyed plain, with a slather of butter, or used as the base for a scrumptious sandwich, this Easy From Scratch recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The simplicity of its ingredients combined with the love and care put into making it truly embodies the beauty of homemade bread. So, gather your loved ones around, share in the joy of breaking bread together, and revel in the magic of creating something delicious from scratch.