Italiano

This is a plan for making three delicious loaves of bread that are perfect for Saturday meals. By following this step-by-step guide, you can prepare a batch of homemade bread that is both flavorful and satisfying. The process is spread over two days to allow for proper rising and fermentation, resulting in a bread with a soft interior and a crisp crust. With simple ingredients like wheat flour, water, yeast, sourdough starter, honey, and salt, you can create these delightful loaves that will enhance your weekend dining experience. Let’s dive into the detailed instructions to plan ahead and enjoy the delightful bread that awaits you on Saturday.

Makes 3 loaves

INGREDIENTS:

DAY 1:

• ⅔ cup (150 g) water, room temperature
• 2 cups (250 g) wheat flour
• 1 ¾ tsp (5 g) fresh yeast

DAY 2:

• 9 cups (1.1 kg) wheat flour
• 2 cups (500 ml) water, room temperature
• 12 oz (350 g) wheat sourdough starter
• ½–1 tbsp honey
• ½ tbsp (10 g) salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

DAY 1:

1. Mix the ingredients well.
2. Ensure the ingredients are well mixed and form a dough.
3. Place the dough in the refrigerator and let it rise for about 12 hours.

DAY 2:

1. Add 9 cups (1.1 kg) wheat flour, 2 cups (500 ml) water (room temperature), 12 oz (350 g) wheat sourdough starter, and ½-1 tbsp honey to the dough prepared on Day 1.
2. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic.
3. Add ½ tbsp (10 g) salt to the dough and continue kneading.
4. Split the dough into three equal parts.
5. Shape each part into a round loaf.
6. Gently dip the loaves in flour and place them on a greased baking sheet.
7. Allow the loaves to rise in the refrigerator for about 10 hours.
8. Preheat the oven to 475°F (240°C).
9. Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

There are several serving options for the lovely bread you’ve prepared. Here are a few ideas to enjoy your homemade loaves:

• Classic Bread Slices: Slice the bread into thick or thin slices and serve it as is. You can enjoy it as a side with soups, stews, or salads, or use it to make sandwiches or toast.
• Toasted with Spreads: Toast the bread slices and spread them with your favorite spreads such as butter, jam, honey, or cream cheese. This option is perfect for breakfast or a light snack.
• Bruschetta: Slice the bread into thick slices, brush them with olive oil, and toast them until crisp. Top with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a delicious bruschetta appetizer.
• Bread Bowl: Hollow out one of the loaves to create a bread bowl. Fill it with your favorite soup or dip, such as creamy spinach dip, chili, or a hearty stew. Serve the soup or dip directly in the bread bowl for a unique and edible presentation.
• Bread Crumbs: If you have any leftover bread or slices that have gone stale, you can turn them into breadcrumbs. Simply dry them out in the oven, then pulse them in a food processor until you have fine breadcrumbs. Use them to coat chicken or fish, sprinkle them on top of casseroles, or use them as a topping for macaroni and cheese.

Once the bread is baked, you’ll have three lovely loaves to enjoy with your Saturday meals.