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There’s something inherently comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air — a symphony of warmth and nourishment that fills the soul. In this recipe, we embark on a journey to create a loaf of homemade bread that not only tantalises the taste buds but also nurtures the spirit. This bread is not like many breads offered here in America. This bread is like home, a thick, dense, and tough loaf that makes sandwich bread look like paper. Let’s dive into the art of bread making, a timeless tradition that connects us to the rhythms of nature and the alchemy of culture.

Ingredients:

500g bread flour

250ml warm milk

50g unsalted butter, melted

75g granulated sugar

One large egg

1 ½ teaspoons salt

2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast

Activate the Yeast:

• Combine the warm milk and one tablespoon of sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes or until foamy.

Mix the Dough:

• Combine the bread flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
• Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture and add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg.
• Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms, then increase the speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

First Rise:

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaves:

• Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to deflate. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each into a smooth ball.
• Place the shaped dough balls into greased loaf pans, leaving a little space between each one. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Preheat the Oven:

• About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Bake the Bread:

• Once the loaves have doubled, brush the tops with milk or beaten egg for a desired shiny finish.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• If the tops of the loaves are browning too quickly, tent them loosely with aluminium foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.

Cool and Enjoy:

• Remove the baked loaves from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
• Slice and serve your freshly baked milk bread with butter, jam, or your favourite toppings. Enjoy the soft and fluffy goodness of homemade bread, perfect for any time of day.

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With its tender crumb and subtle sweetness, homemade bread is a true delight for the senses especially those of us who get homesick easily. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted to perfection, this recipe invites you to savour the simple pleasures of homemade goodness and share the love with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread fill your home with warmth and joy.