Homemade Everyday Bread

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Homemade Everyday Bread (No More Store-Bought!)

Introduction

After trying this simple homemade bread recipe, you may never want to buy bread again. Made with basic pantry ingredients, this bread is soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for sandwiches, breakfast toast, or enjoying warm with olive oil.

Origin

Bread is one of the oldest prepared foods in human history, dating back thousands of years. Simple yeast breads like this one evolved from traditional European and Mediterranean home baking, where families relied on flour, water, yeast, and oil to create nourishing daily loaves.

Cultural Significance

Across cultures, bread symbolizes comfort, hospitality, and sustenance. From shared family meals to communal gatherings, homemade bread represents care and tradition. Baking bread at home reconnects us with slower, more mindful food practices that have been passed down for generations.

Ingredients Quantity

  • 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (10 g) dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1⅓ cups (320 ml) warm water
  • 4¾ cups (570 g) plain flour

Optional Additions

  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (to help activate the yeast faster)
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano, thyme, or rosemary)
  • 2 tablespoons seeds (sesame, flax, or sunflower)
  • 1–2 cloves garlic, finely minced, for savory bread

Tips for Success

  • Use warm water, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Knead well until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place.
  • Do not add too much flour; a slightly soft dough gives better texture.

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix warm water and dry yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add olive oil and salt, then gradually mix in the flour.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
  4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking tray or loaf pan.
  6. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes until golden.
  8. Cool slightly before slicing.

Description

This bread has a golden crust with a soft, fluffy interior. Its mild flavor makes it versatile for both sweet and savory uses, while the olive oil adds subtle richness and aroma.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

  • Calories: 150–170 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Fiber: 1–2 g

Conclusion

Making bread at home is easier than it seems and incredibly rewarding. With just a few ingredients, you can create fresh, wholesome bread that tastes better than most store-bought options.

Recommendation

Enjoy this bread fresh, toasted, or paired with soups, salads, or spreads. Try experimenting with herbs or whole-grain flour once you master the basic recipe.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Homemade bread allows you to control ingredients, avoid preservatives, and enjoy food made with care. It’s a simple indulgence that nourishes both body and soul—proof that comfort food can also be wholesome.

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