Steamed German Brown Bread
Steamed German Brown Bread offers hearty whole wheat flavor with a touch of molasses, perfect for wholesome breakfasts or snack times, appealing to bread lovers and health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, and sugar.
- Stir in milk.
- Add the melted shortening, molasses, and the soda dissolved in hot water.
- Place the batter in greased and floured bread pans.
- Cover with similar pans or a lid.
- Steam or bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. If whole wheat flour is unavailable, you can use all-purpose flour. For a sweeter bread, increase the sugar by a tablespoon. Ensure the water for dissolving the soda is hot enough to activate it, which is crucial for the bread's rise. Remember to adjust steaming time if using larger pans.
Serving Suggestions
This steamed German brown bread pairs beautifully with butter and honey for breakfast or brunch. Consider serving it alongside hearty soups or stews, like Potatoes Hungarian, for a comforting meal. For a delightful dessert option, try it with Eves Pudding. Slices can also be toasted and topped with your favorite spreads for a quick snack.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the steamed bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it, ensuring to use a freezer-safe bag. Reheat slices in a toaster or microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steamed German Brown Bread contains roughly 791 calories, with 16g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose or spelt flour. However, this may change the texture and flavor slightly. Whole wheat flour provides a denser, nuttier bread, while all-purpose will yield a lighter loaf. Adjust hydration as needed since different flours absorb moisture differently.
What if I don't have shortening?
If you're out of shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or vegetable oil. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, with butter adding richness. Just melt it and mix it in as you would with shortening for optimal results.
How can I tell when the bread is done cooking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it's ready. Additionally, the bread should have a firm texture and a slightly domed top. If it feels soft or wet, it may need more time.
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).