Rachel'S Bread
Homemade bread with a hearty texture and classic flavor, perfect for family meals or special occasions, offering a warm, comforting aroma and satisfying crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
- Let the dough rise, punch down twice, and allow it to rise again until doubled in bulk.
- Grease loaf pans with butter or oil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your potato water is warm but not hot when mixing with yeast, as extreme temperatures can kill the yeast. You can substitute lard with additional oil or butter for a vegan option. If you're short on flour, a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose can add a nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is perfect for sandwiches or served alongside soups and stews. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Leona'S Orange Jello Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a special touch, spread with a little honey butter or serve with Holiday Cranberry Sauce for a delightful brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bread in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat by toasting or warming in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rachel'S Bread contains roughly 278 calories, with 11g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2768mg per serving (120% 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 active dry yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for the dry yeast in this recipe. Just make sure to activate it in warm potato water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the other ingredients to ensure a good rise.
How can I tell when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size, which usually takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on the temperature of your kitchen. You can also gently poke the dough; if it springs back slowly, it's ready to be punched down.
What can I do if my bread turns out too dense?
If your bread is dense, it may be due to over-kneading or not allowing it to rise long enough. Next time, try mixing gently and ensuring it rises until it has doubled. Adding a bit of vital wheat gluten can also help improve the texture.
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).