Since we have decided to only buy second hand this year, we have also tried to know where our food comes from and what is in it. I am trying to watch our preservatives and buy organic for the most part. I am now making bread at least 2 loaves a week instead of buying it in the store. I know what goes into it and it is so much healthier for us and so incredibly tasty. Homemade bread sandwiches are the best. It is hard to not finish off the whole loaf when it comes out of the oven. I kindof cheat by making the dough in the bread machine, and then baking it myself, but this way, I can actually have time to do something else while it rises.
Our Favorite recipe- Whole Wheat Oatmeal Bread. ( this title would indicate that there is more whole wheat flour and oatmeal that anything else, not the case... just a little recipe fact for ya!)
1 1/4 C water ( 70-80 degrees)
2 T honey
2 T butter/margarine ( or as a former student said Mar ga reene)
1 1/4 tsp. salt
2 T nonfat dry milk powder
1 3/4 C. bread flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/3 c. quick-cooking oats
1 1/4 tsp active dry yeast.
I also add some flax seeds to the mixture, you can add amount desired in addition to the whole wheat flour or substitute some for whole wheat flour.
In the bread machine, put all ingredients in order as suggested by manufacturer (usually all liquids, then dry, last yeast- make a little well for the yeast).
Select basic bread setting, choose crust color and loaf size if available ( makes a 1 1/2 lb loaf). Bake according to bread machine directions. Check dough after 5 minutes of mixing; add 2 T of water or flour if needed.
Bread machine for mixing only. Select Dough option and when finished roll into a loaf, put into a greased loaf pan. Cover and rise in a warm place for 1 hour. Top of the refrigerator is great for this. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Tap top of bread for doneness, it should sound hollow. Take out of pan and let cool on wire rack. Amazing with honey, pb or just fresh out of the oven. Enjoy!
