Ingredients
- 500g (4 cups) whole wheat flour
- 10g (2 tsp) salt
- 7g (2 tsp) dry yeast
- 20g (2 tbsp) brown sugar
- 300ml (1 1/4 cup) warm water
- 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
- 100g (1/2 cup) salted butter, softened
- 300g (1 1/2 cup) sweet oranges, peeled and chopped
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 200g (1 cup) cranberries, fresh or frozen
- 150g (1/2 cup) apricots, diced
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, salt, brown sugar, and dry yeast. Mix well. Create a well in the center and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for about 10-15 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Occasionally, sprinkle more flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: First Rise
Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shaping and Second Rise
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf by rolling it into a rectangle, folding it over itself, and pinching the seams. Place the loaf on a baking sheet or in a bread tin. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 5: Baking the Bread
Once the loaf has doubled in size, bake it in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack.
Step 6: Making the Marmalades
For the orange marmalade, combine oranges, lemon juice, and sugar in a saucepan. Simmer on low heat until the mixture thickens to your preferred consistency, about 30-40 minutes. For cranberry and apricot variants, use the same method, adding a little water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Serving
Slice the cooled bread with a knife. Generously spread the softened butter over the slices. Serve with a selection of the prepared marmalades. Enjoy this simple yet indulgent treat!
Conclusion
This journey through making brown bread with butter and homemade marmalade has guided you through both the aesthetics and the aromatic allure of home baking. The harmony between the wholesome bread and the sweet-tart marmalades creates a symphony of flavors that packs each bite with warmth and tradition. Whether enjoyed at a bustling breakfast or a quiet afternoon tea, this combination is timeless. Embrace the art of bread-making and let it fill your kitchen with the wondrous scent of comfort and joy. Happy baking!
