Freshly ground flour bread offers a unique flavor and texture unavailable from commercially milled flour. The process, while slightly more involved, rewards you with a loaf bursting with nuanced aromas and a satisfyingly chewy crumb. This guide will walk you through creating your own delicious fresh ground flour bread, from grain selection to the final bake.
What Kind of Grain Should I Use for Fresh Ground Flour Bread?
This depends entirely on your preference! Hard wheat berries are a popular choice for bread making due to their high protein content, resulting in a strong gluten structure and a chewier loaf. However, you can experiment with a variety of grains, including:
- Hard Red Wheat: Offers a classic wheat flavor and good rise.
- Hard White Wheat: Provides a milder flavor and lighter color.
- Spelt: Offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor with a less chewy texture.
- Rye: Adds a tangy flavor and denser crumb. You'll likely want to blend it with another grain for optimal leavening.
You can even create unique blends! Experiment with different ratios to find your perfect combination. Remember to adjust hydration levels depending on the grain you choose, as some grains absorb more water than others.
How Much Flour Do I Need to Make a Loaf of Bread?
The amount of flour needed depends on the recipe you're following. A standard loaf typically uses around 3-4 cups of flour, but this can vary greatly. Always refer to the specific recipe instructions for accurate measurements.
What’s the Best Way to Grind Flour at Home?
While you can use a blender, a dedicated grain mill is ideal for grinding flour at home. A burr mill is generally preferred over a blade mill, as it produces a more consistent grind without generating excess heat, which can damage the flour's proteins. If you're only baking occasionally, a hand-cranked burr mill might suffice. For more frequent baking, consider an electric burr mill for increased efficiency.
Can I Use Pre-Ground Flour Instead of Freshly Ground?
While you can certainly use pre-ground flour, the experience and flavor will differ significantly. Freshly ground flour offers a superior taste and aroma due to the release of fresh oils and the absence of oxidation. Pre-ground flour often sits on shelves for extended periods, leading to a decline in flavor and nutritional value.
How Do I Store Freshly Ground Flour?
Freshly ground flour should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Ideally, use it within a few days for optimal flavor and quality. You can freeze freshly ground flour for longer storage, but remember to let it thaw completely before using it.
Recipe for Fresh Ground Flour Bread:
This recipe uses hard red wheat berries, but feel free to substitute with your preferred grain. Remember to adjust the hydration based on the grain you choose.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups freshly ground hard red wheat flour
- 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Activate yeast: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine ingredients: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil (if using) to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the loaf: Gently punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Second rise: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
This fresh ground flour bread recipe serves as a starting point for your baking journey. Experiment with different grains, additions (such as seeds or herbs), and techniques to create your signature loaf. Enjoy the rewarding experience of baking with freshly ground flour!
