French Bread(2 Loaves)
Enjoy warm, crusty French bread with a tender interior, perfect for sandwiches or alongside meals. Classic flavor and texture make it a family favorite or special treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle yeast into 1/2 cup warm water and stir until dissolved. Dissolve sugar and salt in 1 cup warm water.
- Add softened shortening and yeast mixture; mix well.
- Add sifted flour and mix until combined.
- Work through dough with a spoon 5 times at 10-minute intervals.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured board and divide in half.
- Shape each half into a ball and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll each into a 12 x 9-inch rectangle.
- Place on a baking sheet.
- Score with 6 diagonal marks on each loaf.
- Cover with a towel and let rise for 1 1/2 hours.
- Bake at 450°F for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. If you're out of shortening, butter can be used as a substitute, although it may alter the texture slightly. Ensure your water is warm, but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. If you're short on time, you can let the dough rise in a warm oven for a speedier process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a side of butter or olive oil for dipping. French bread is perfect for making sandwiches or accompanying a hearty soup or salad. It also pairs beautifully with a Peach Bowl for a refreshing contrast. Consider toasting slices for bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil for a delightful appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the loaves in plastic wrap or place them in a sealed bag to maintain freshness. French bread is best enjoyed fresh but can last for about 2-3 days at room temperature. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore crustiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Bread(2 Loaves) contains roughly 195 calories, with 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast without needing to dissolve it in water first. Just add it directly to the dry ingredients. The rising time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the dough.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough isn't rising, it could be due to old yeast or too cold of an environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warmer spot, such as near a preheated oven or in a sunny area.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the dough?
Absolutely! You can mix in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese to enhance the flavor. Just be cautious with the moisture content, as it might 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).