Peasant Bread Recipe

All-purpose flour: The main ingredient that forms the structure of the bread.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.

Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a slight sweetness.

Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and gives the bread its airy texture.

Warm water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.

When mixing the dough, ensure that the water is warm but not too hot, ideally around 110°F (43°C). This temperature activates the yeast without killing it, promoting a good rise. Additionally, when letting the dough rise, place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area to ensure consistent fermentation.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can result in a chewier texture, suitable for bread making.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the bread denser.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content and flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a different sweetness and moisture, but use slightly less as it is sweeter than sugar.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique flavor and sweetness, but reduce the amount slightly as it is sweeter than sugar.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water before use.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with fresh yeast: Fresh yeast can be used at a ratio of 2.5 times the amount of active dry yeast, providing a slightly different flavor.

• warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk adds richness and a softer texture to the bread, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

• warm water - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and tenderness to the bread, but it may require slight adjustments in the amount of liquid used.

• Allow the peasant bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the bread soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the cooled bread in a bread box or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. This will keep the crust crisp while maintaining the bread's moisture.
• If you prefer, you can store the bread in a plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature. This will keep the bread fresh for up to 3 days, though the crust may soften.
• For longer storage, slice the bread before freezing. This allows you to take out only the slices you need without defrosting the entire loaf.
• Wrap each slice or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped bread in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label the bag with the date to keep track of its freshness. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To defrost, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a quicker option, you can toast the frozen slices directly in a toaster.
• If you have frozen an entire loaf, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can refresh the crust by placing the loaf in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
• For an extra touch of flavor, brush the thawed slices with olive oil or butter and toast them in a skillet until golden brown. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the bread's natural flavors.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wrap the peasant bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
  4. For a crispier crust, unwrap the bread for the last 5 minutes of reheating.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slice the bread into desired portions.
  3. Place the slices directly on the toaster oven rack or on a baking sheet.
  4. Heat for 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid over-toasting.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a slice of peasant bread on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the bread with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 10-20 seconds. Check and add more time if necessary, but be cautious to avoid making the bread chewy.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Lightly butter or oil the skillet if desired.
  3. Place slices of bread in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Bring a pot of water to a simmer and place a steaming basket over it.
  2. Wrap the peasant bread in a clean kitchen towel and place it in the steaming basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is warmed through and soft.

• Large mixing bowl: To combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast, and to mix in the warm water to form the dough.

• Towel: To cover the bowl and allow the dough to rise without drying out.

• Greased baking dish: To transfer the dough into for baking, ensuring it doesn't stick.

• Oven: To bake the bread at the required temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Measuring cups: To measure the flour and water accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the salt, sugar, and yeast precisely.

• Spatula or wooden spoon: To mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.

• Cooling rack: To let the bread cool down properly before slicing and serving.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast ahead of time to streamline the process.

Warm water ready: Have your warm water at the correct temperature before you start mixing.

Quick rise: Place the dough in a warm spot to speed up the rising process.

Use a stand mixer: If you have one, use a stand mixer to combine the ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Grease in advance: Grease your baking dish while the dough is rising to save time later.