A staple in many households, traditional white bread is celebrated for its soft, fluffy texture and mild flavor, making it a perfect companion to various dishes. Its cultural significance spans many countries, serving as the base for sandwiches, toast, and more. This versatile bread is a favorite due to its ease of preparation and ability to complement both sweet and savory toppings.
Servings: Serves 8 people
Appliances/Utensils:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Mix the yeast and sugar with the warm water in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased loaf pan.
6. Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30 minutes, or until it has risen about 1 inch above the rim of the loaf pan.
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack before slicing.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a richer flavor, substitute some of the water with milk.
- Add a tablespoon of honey for a hint of sweetness.
- For a crustier top, brush the dough with an egg wash before baking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy with butter and jam for breakfast.
- Use it as the base for a hearty sandwich.
- Serve alongside soups or stews.
Estimated Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Rise time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 2 hours 25 minutes