In a bowl, mix the water, yogurt, yeast, and a pinch of sugar to activate the yeast.
Add the vegetable oil, flour, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until all the dry flour is incorporated—no need to knead.
Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
After resting, wet your hands and stretch the four sides of the dough, folding each side toward the center.
Using the “lift and slap” technique, lift the dough and slap it back into the bowl. Cover and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
Repeat the stretching, folding, and lifting process one more time. After this second round, let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 2 hours.
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle some flour on your work surface, fold the dough in half, and gently flatten it into a rectangle.
Roll the dough and press down with your fingers to seal the edge. Pinch the seams to close it well.
Move the dough into a loaf pan lined with baking paper. Cover with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 430°F (220°C).
Once the dough has risen, brush the top with water and sprinkle sesame seeds or other seeds of choice.
Score the top of the bread with a sharp blade.
Cover the loaf pan with another loaf pan and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the top loaf pan and bake for another 10 minutes to crisp up the crust.
Remove the bread from the pan, cover it with a towel, and let it cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
Spread with butter or jam for a simple, delicious snack.
Use this bread to make gourmet sandwiches, or as toast for breakfast with avocado.
Pair it with soups or salads for a light meal.
Cooking Tips:
Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
You can add herbs like rosemary or garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
To avoid the dough sticking to your hands, keep them slightly wet while working with it.
Nutritional Benefits:
Yogurt in the dough adds protein and calcium, enhancing the bread’s nutritional value.
Minimal added sugar and oil make this bread a healthier option compared to store-bought alternatives.
Rich in complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
Dietary Information:
This bread is vegetarian-friendly.
Can be made dairy-free by substituting the yogurt with a plant-based option.
Free from preservatives and artificial additives, making it a wholesome choice.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 12 slices):
Calories: 130 kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 170mg
Storage:
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The crust is thin and crispy, while the inside remains soft and pillowy.
The recipe is straightforward, requiring no kneading, making it great for beginner bakers.
It’s free of additives, delivering a healthier, homemade alternative to store-bought bread.
The versatility of this bread makes it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter.
Conclusion:
This super soft and crispy bread will make your kitchen smell like a bakery and your taste buds dance with delight. Its simplicity in preparation and impressive results will make it a staple in your household. With no preservatives, it’s a wholesome, healthier choice for you and your family. Make this once, and it’ll quickly become a go-to recipe for all your bread needs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use instant yeast instead of fresh or dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute with the same amount of instant yeast.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute specifically for bread.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure the yeast is active by testing it in warm water with sugar before mixing.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and bake it the next day.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but the bread will be denser. You can use half whole wheat and half bread flour for a lighter loaf.
Why do I need to cover the loaf pan during baking?
Covering traps steam, creating a crispy crust while keeping the inside soft.
How do I know the bread is fully baked?
It should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, and the internal temperature should be 190°F (88°C).
Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
Yes, you can mix in seeds, nuts, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Can I make rolls instead of a loaf?
Absolutely! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time.
What if I don’t have a loaf pan?
You can shape the dough into a free-form loaf and bake it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
ADVERTISEMENT
