I decided the last bake of 2021 should be bread, for several reasons. First, before I started baking last year, I was terrified of baking bread. I was never afraid of baking cookies or cakes but bread was different. Today, bread is one of the easiest things I bake. Secondly, I love how versatile bread is. It can be sweet or savory, with or without fillings, and goes with butter, olive oil and balsamic vinegar, jam, peanut butter, Nutella, curry, and luscious sauces. Last but not least, bread is universal, spanning cultures and geographies. I read somewhere that bread is one of the world’s oldest food that did not require foraging and hunting.
Here’s to overcoming your fears, and recognizing bread for its significance globally. Have a significant 2022!
Recipe: 200ml milk (plus 50ml extra if needed) 30g unsalted butter 7g instant yeast 450g bread flour or all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 large egg yolks
Heat 200ml of milk and butter together in a microwave or saucepan until temperature reaches 110°F or 45°C (warm to the touch). Add the yeast and let stand for 10 minutes, until frothy on top.
While yeast is activating, combine flour and salt in a separate bowl. Create a well in the centre of the flour. Add the yeast mixture and egg yolks into the well. Mix into the flour until combined. Knead or use a stand mixer until dough is soft and elastic.
Lightly oil a large bowl and place dough into bowl. Cover bowl and set in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. Punch dough down, cover and let rest for an additional 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
Divide dough into two (or more if smaller portions are desired). Roll dough out, then spread the roasted garlic herb butter. Pinch the sides of the dough together, give it a roll to flatten, then with a sharp knife, cut slits in the dough without cutting through both ends (see picture). Simply roll/twist dough to form any design you desire.
Let dough rest for 30 minutes, then brush with egg wash, before baking at 350°F for 30 minutes or until lightly browned.
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