Cracked Wheat-Carrot Bread
Cracked Wheat-Carrot Bread offers a hearty, wholesome loaf packed with nutty cracked wheat and sweet shredded carrots. Its warm spices and rich texture make it perfect for breakfast, snack, or as a side. Suitable for those seeking a nutritious, flavorful bread with a delightful chewy crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cracked wheat in a small bowl and cover with boiling water. Let stand for 15 minutes, then drain.
- In a medium bowl, mix active dry yeast, brown sugar, salt, and whole wheat flour.
- Heat water, milk, and butter until very warm.
- Add the warm liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and beat at medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the cracked wheat, shredded carrots, and 1/2 cup of unbleached flour.
- Beat at high speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in enough additional flour to make a firm dough.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different texture, consider using bulgur wheat instead of cracked wheat, as it provides a similar nutty flavor. If you prefer a sweeter bread, adding a tablespoon of honey can enhance the taste. Make sure to check the water temperature while heating; it shouldn't exceed 120°F to prevent killing the yeast. Always knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic for the best rise.
Serving Suggestions
This Cracked Wheat-Carrot Bread pairs beautifully with a spread of French Mustard or can be enjoyed with a savory soup, such as a hearty vegetable or lentil soup. It also complements salads or can be served alongside dishes like Portuguese Beans for a nutritious meal. Consider toasting slices and topping them with cream cheese and fresh herbs for a delightful snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply toast slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cracked Wheat-Carrot Bread contains roughly 844 calories, with 15g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1990mg per serving (87% 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 make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check that the yeast is gluten-free as well. Additionally, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly, as gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently.
How can I add more flavor to this bread?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. You can also incorporate ingredients such as chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and taste. Experimenting with spices like cardamom or allspice can give it a unique twist as well.
What can I do with leftover bread?
Leftover Cracked Wheat-Carrot Bread can be transformed into delicious croutons by cubing it, tossing it with olive oil and herbs, and baking until crispy. Alternatively, you can turn it into a bread pudding by soaking it in a mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar, then baking until set for a sweet treat.
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).