Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- ½ cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the oil and warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Add the raisins and cinnamon and knead for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
7. Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
8. Braid the ropes together and place on a baking sheet.
9. Brush the challah with egg wash and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: Makes 1 loaf
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour.
- For the vegetable oil, you can use melted butter or coconut oil.
- For the raisins, you can use dried cranberries or chopped dates.
Variations:
- For a sweeter challah, you can add an additional tablespoon of sugar.
- For a savory challah, you can add herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot, when adding it to the dough.
- Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes to ensure a smooth and elastic texture.
- Let the challah rise in a warm place for at least 1 hour.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the challah in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the challah, place it in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the challah with honey or jam.
- Slice the challah and serve it with a side of butter.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the challah with sesame seeds or poppy seeds.
Pairings:
- Serve the challah with coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the challah with a salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the challah is not rising, make sure the water is warm enough and the yeast is active.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
Food History:
- Challah is a traditional Jewish bread that is often served on special occasions.
Flavor Profiles:
- The challah has a sweet and nutty flavor from the cinnamon and raisins.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the challah as a snack or as part of a meal.
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Region: Jewish