Ingredients:
- 1½ cups (370 ml) warm waterGirl Versus Dough
- 2 tablespoons (10 g) active dry yeast
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast dissolves and becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, gradually incorporate more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Loaf:
- Punch down the risen dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen about 1 inch above the pan.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade bread!
