Whole Wheat Bread (Classic and Tangzhong Variants)

Whole Wheat Bread: Classic and Tangzhong Variants Introduction Welcome to the wonderful world of homemade bread! Today, we’re exploring how to make whole wheat bread with two different techniques: the classic method and the Tangzhong method. Whole wheat bread is cherished for its nutty flavor and dense texture, offering a heartier alternative to white bread. The Tangzhong method, which hails from Asia, involves creating a roux that keeps your bread incredibly soft and fresh for longer periods. Dive into these recipes and experience the comforting scent of fresh bread wafting through your home. Kitchen Equipment Required Mixing Bowls Measuring Cups and Spoons Kitchen Scale Stand Mixer with Dough Hook Bread Pan Oven Wire Rack Cooking Time Total estimated time: 3 to 4 hours Whole Wheat Bread Recipe: Classic Variant Ingredients 500g (4 cups) whole wheat flour 300ml (1 1/4 cups) warm water 7g (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast 60ml (1/4 cup) honey 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil 5g (1 tsp) salt Instructions Step 1: Activate the Yeast In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. Step 2: Prepare the Dough Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate the whole wheat flour a cup at a time. Once the dough starts to form, knead it using a stand mixer with the dough hook attachment for about 10 minutes at a medium speed. Step 3: First Rise Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours or until doubled in size. Step 4: Shape the Dough Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a loaf by folding the sides inward and rolling it into a log. Place it into a greased bread pan. Step 5: Second Rise Cover the loaf again and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes until it has risen to about one inch above the bread pan. Step 6: Bake the Bread Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes. It should sound hollow when tapped on the base. Step 7: Cool the Bread Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Whole Wheat Bread Recipe: Tangzhong Variant Ingredients 450g (3 3/4 cups) whole wheat flour 50g (1/3 cup) bread flour for Tangzhong 200ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) water for Tangzhong 70g (1/3 cup) sugar 8g (2 tsp) salt 120ml (1/2 cup) milk at room temperature 75ml (1/3 cup) butter, melted 7g (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast 1 egg Instructions Step 1: Create Tangzhong In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the bread flour and water until it forms a thick paste. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Set aside to cool. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, sugar, and salt. Set aside. Step 3: Activate the Yeast Warm the milk slightly and mix with yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Add the cooled Tangzhong, yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Knead until you have a soft, elastic dough, about 10-15 minutes. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky. Step 5: First Rise Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours. Step 6: Shape the Dough Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased bread pan. Step 7: Second Rise Allow the dough to rise for 30-45 minutes, until it has risen to about one inch above the bread pan. Step 8: Bake the Bread Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the bread for 30-35 minutes. The loaf should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Step 9: Cool and Serve Once baked, cool the loaf on a wire rack. Slice when completely cooled and enjoy your soft, fluffy bread. Conclusion Bread-making is a rewarding skill, bridging tradition with modern culinary arts. Whether you choose the classic route or the Tangzhong technique, both methods promise a delightful loaf of whole wheat bread. Each slice offers a wholesome taste, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply with a slab of butter. As you practice and tweak these recipes to your taste, you’ll unlock the magic that lies within baking – creating food that fills both the home and the heart.

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