Effortless German Bread in Just 5 Minutes: A Must-Try Recipe
Ingredients:
- 350 ml room temperature water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 8 grams dry yeast
- 25 ml sunflower oil
- 500 grams flour, plus extra for dusting
Preparation Steps:
1. Activate the Yeast:
Begin by combining water, sugar, and dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently to dissolve the ingredients, then cover the bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes. This allows the yeast to activate, an essential step in achieving the perfect rise in your bread.
2. Incorporate Oil and Flour:
Once the yeast is activated, add the sunflower oil. Gradually sift in the flour, ensuring it is thoroughly mixed. Sifting the flour not only prevents lumps but also helps to aerate it, which is key to achieving a light and fluffy bread texture.
3. First Rise:
Mix the ingredients until a sticky, cohesive dough forms. Cover the bowl with a cloth and place it in a warm area, allowing the dough to rise and double in size over the course of an hour.
4. Second Kneading:
After the dough has risen, stir it gently for about 30 seconds. Cover it again and let it rest for an additional 30 minutes. This second resting period allows the dough to further develop its structure.
5. Shape the Dough:
Lightly flour a clean work surface and roll the dough out into a rectangle. Fold it over itself, then cover it with a bowl and let it rest for 10 minutes.
6. Final Shaping:
Re-flour the surface if necessary and roll the dough out to your desired thickness. Shape the dough as you prefer, preparing it for the baking process.
7. Bake:
Transfer the shaped dough to a baking tray. Optionally, you can make a few decorative slashes on top for a classic look. Bake in a preheated oven at 230°C (446°F) for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread turns a beautiful golden brown and is fully cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve:
Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. This not only makes it easier to cut but also enhances the flavor and texture, making each bite a true delight.
This German bread recipe offers a quick and straightforward approach to enjoying freshly baked bread with minimal effort. Ideal for busy days or any time you crave the warmth and comfort of homemade bread, this recipe is both efficient and rewarding. The simplicity of the ingredients and process ensures that anyone, whether a seasoned baker or a beginner, can achieve bakery-quality results at home.
Let the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread fill your kitchen, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious with your own hands. This German bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire, offering both comfort and culinary joy.