Bake multigrain bread at home: We tell you how!
What's the story
Baking your own multigrain bread at home is not only healthier but also a great way to save money while enjoying fresh, nutritious bread. With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can create delicious multigrain bread that rivals anything you'd find in a fancy bakery. This article provides easy and affordable recipes for baking multigrain bread at home.
Grains selection
Selecting the right grains
The secret to a delicious multigrain bread is choosing the right grains. Go for a variety of whole grains like wheat, oats, barley, and millet. Purchasing these grains in bulk can be up to 30% cheaper than buying smaller amounts. Try health food stores or online for the best bulk deals.
Flour mix
Homemade multigrain flour mix
Don't purchase pre-mixed multigrain flour! Make your own blend instead. It's healthier, cost-effective, and you can adjust the mix to suit your taste and dietary requirements. A simple blend could be 60% whole wheat flour and 40% mix of other flours such as barley, rye, and millet. And, you can easily grind these grains at home using a regular food processor or even a coffee grinder.
Hydration technique
The importance of hydration
The secret to perfect bread texture? It's all about hydration! For multigrain breads, aim for 75-80% hydration. This is the sweet spot for a soft crumb without compromising the bread's structure. Start by mixing all your dry ingredients well. Then, add water slowly, stirring until the dough reaches the desired consistency. Voila! Your multigrain bread will be soft yet structured.
Sweeteners choice
Utilizing natural sweeteners
Want to level up the taste of your multigrain bread without burning a hole in your pocket? Swap out the sugar and reach for natural sweeteners like honey or molasses instead. These not only add a rich depth of flavor but also come with health benefits. Even a tablespoon of honey ($0.15 worth) can make a huge difference. It might just be your secret ingredient!
Baking hacks
Creative baking techniques
Try different baking methods like using a Dutch oven or creating steam in your oven to achieve that ideal crusty exterior and soft interior. Preheating your baking vessel replicates the intense heat of professional bakery ovens for free. Plus, adding a pan with water on the lower rack generates steam, which contributes to that perfect, artisanal-quality crust.