Spelt Bread Recipe: A Guide to Baking Delicious and Nutritious Bread
Spelt, an ancient grain, is making a comeback in the culinary world, and for good reason! It offers a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture that many find superior to regular wheat bread. This spelt bread recipe will guide you through the process of baking a loaf that's both delicious and nutritious. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields one medium-sized loaf. Adjust quantities as needed for larger batches.
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F): This temperature is crucial for activating the yeast.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Provides food for the yeast.
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast: The leavening agent for your bread.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds flavor and keeps the bread moist.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and controls yeast activity.
- 3 cups spelt flour, plus more for dusting: Spelt flour has a slightly different protein content than all-purpose flour, so it might need a little extra.
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (optional): Adding whole wheat flour increases the nutritional value and adds a deeper flavor.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms the yeast is alive and active.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the spelt flour and optional whole wheat flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more spelt flour, one tablespoon at a time.
4. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation): Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf: Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf.
6. Second Rise (Proofing): Place the shaped loaf in a lightly oiled loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
7. Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C). Use a bread thermometer for accuracy.
8. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the crust to set and the inside to cool evenly.
Tips for Baking Perfect Spelt Bread:
- Flour Type: Using a blend of spelt and whole wheat flour can result in a richer flavor and better texture.
- Hydration: Spelt flour can absorb more water than all-purpose flour. If your dough seems too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Oven Temperature: Monitor your oven closely. Ovens can vary, so adjust baking time as needed.
- Cooling: Patience is key! Allowing the bread to cool completely prevents a gummy texture.
Nutritional Benefits of Spelt Bread:
Spelt bread offers numerous health benefits compared to regular wheat bread. It's higher in protein, fiber, and various minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
Enjoy your freshly baked spelt bread! Experiment with different additions like seeds, herbs, or nuts to create your own unique variations. Happy baking!
