Bread I
A hearty, traditional homemade bread with a slightly sweet flavor from sugar or honey, perfect for breakfast or as a side for family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the flour, sugar or honey, salt, yeast, water, and scalded milk in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix until well combined and the dough is smooth.
- Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size.
- Work the dough down, shape it as desired, and place in a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the lard with unsalted butter. If you prefer a healthier option, you can replace sugar with honey, which also adds moisture. Ensure that the milk is scalded to activate the yeast properly. If you're short on time, you can let the dough rise in a warm place to speed up the process.
Serving Suggestions
This bread pairs beautifully with Easter Bunny Salad or can be enjoyed with butter or jam for breakfast. Serve it alongside soups or stews for a comforting meal. For a delightful dessert, consider pairing it with Fig Squares. It also makes excellent sandwiches for lunch or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bread I contains roughly 1180 calories, with 21g protein, 210g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), and iron (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2489mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour; however, bread flour will yield a chewier texture due to its higher protein content. If using all-purpose flour, you may want to reduce the water slightly as it absorbs less moisture.
What if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or cold temperatures. Ensure your yeast is fresh and proof it in warm water with sugar before adding it to the mixture. Also, place the dough in a warm area to encourage rising.
Can I add ingredients like herbs or cheese to the dough?
Absolutely! You can incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch, or add shredded cheese for added flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture, which could affect the dough's consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).