Stovetop Bread: A Simple Recipe for Homemade White Bread Without an Oven
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently, then allow the mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough forms. Adjust the texture by adding more flour if it’s too sticky, or more water if it’s too dry.
3. Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Place it on a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf, or divide it into smaller portions for rolls.
6. Preheat the Pan
Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Lightly grease the pan with olive oil.
7. Cook the Bread
Place the shaped dough in the preheated pan. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil to create an oven-like environment. Cook for 10-12 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 8-10 minutes on the other side. The bread should turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the pan and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm, topped with your favorite spreads or accompaniments.
Why Stovetop Bread?
- Convenient: Ideal for small kitchens or when you want to avoid using the oven.
- Efficient: Faster than traditional baking methods, with minimal preheating and quicker cooking times.
- Flavorful: Yields fresh, homemade bread with a crisp crust and tender interior.
Expert Tips for Perfect Stovetop Bread
- Low and Slow: Cooking over medium-low heat ensures thorough cooking without burning.
- Covered Cooking: Keeping the pan covered traps heat and moisture, mimicking the effects of an oven.
- Get Creative: Enhance the dough with herbs, seeds, or whole grains for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Baking bread in a pan is a practical and satisfying alternative to traditional oven methods. This recipe delivers delicious, homemade white bread perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own. Try it out and savor the pleasure of freshly baked bread, made right on your stovetop.