Wholesome granary bread
When it comes to baking, few things are as rewarding as creating your own bread. Not only does it fill the house with an irresistible aroma, but it also allows you to incorporate wholesome ingredients. Today, we’ll share a delicious bread recipe that combines strong white flour, nutritious nuts, and dried fruits, making it especially beneficial for women experiencing menopause.
Ingredients
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225g strong white flour
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225 malted granary flour
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10g salt
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10g caster sugar
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7g easy blend yeast
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150 ml warm milk
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1 large egg
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50ml olive oil
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150ml water
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75g dried cranberries
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75g walnuts, chopped
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A handful of sesame or pumpkin seeds or a mix of both.
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Equipment
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Baking bowl
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Clean kitchen towel
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Loaf tin (900g size)
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Oven
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Cooling rack
Method
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Ready to get started? Follow these six simple steps to bake your delicious loaf:
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In a mixing bowl, combine the flours, salt, caster sugar, and easy blend yeast. Make sure the salt is on one side and the yeast on the other — this keeps them separate until you're ready to mix.
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Add the warm milk, olive oil, and egg to the dry ingredients. Gradually add the water while mixing until a sticky dough forms.
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Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
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Incorporate the dried cranberries and walnuts into the dough, kneading gently until evenly distributed.
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Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
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Once risen, shape the dough into a loaf and place it into the greased tin. Scatter the top with the seed mix. Let it prove for another 30 minutes before baking in a preheated oven at 220°C (428°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
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Remove from the oven, let it cool on a rack, and slice when ready! Trust us; you’ll love it!
The nutritional benefits of this bread
So, why is this nourishing bread particularly beneficial for women in menopause? Whole grain bread is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, fibre, and healthy fats from walnuts, which can help alleviate some menopause symptoms. Additionally, the dried cranberries contribute antioxidants, making every slice not just tasty but also healthful.
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Loads of love and nutrition are baked right in with every slice. So, grab your apron, and let's get baking!