Classic Manchet Bread Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups warm water

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the melted butter and warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth.
5. Let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Grease a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
8. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape into balls.
9. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and brush with melted butter.
10. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Serving Size: 12 pieces

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 130
Fat: 2.5 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the all-purpose flour, you can use bread flour or whole wheat flour.
- For the active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast.
- For the butter, you can use olive oil or coconut oil.

Variations:
- You can add herbs, spices, or dried fruit to the dough for extra flavor.
- You can top the bread with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the water is not too hot or too cold when adding it to the dough.
- Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for best results.

Storage Instructions:
- The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- The bread can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions:
- The bread can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
- The bread can be served with butter, jam, or honey.
- The bread can be used to make sandwiches or toast.

Garnishes:
- The bread can be garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme.
- The bread can also be garnished with grated cheese or chopped nuts.

Pairings:
- The bread pairs well with soups, salads, and stews.
- The bread also pairs well with cheese and charcuterie.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- The bread can be served with a side of roasted vegetables.
- The bread can also be served with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour a tablespoon at a time until it is the right consistency.
- If the dough is too dry, add more water a tablespoon at a time until it is the right consistency.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Make sure all equipment is clean and sanitized before use.

Food History:
Manchet bread is a type of white bread that was popular in medieval Europe. It was often served at banquets and feasts.

Flavor Profiles:
The bread has a light and fluffy texture with a slightly sweet flavor.

Serving Suggestions:
- The bread can be served as a side dish or as a snack.
- The bread can also be used to make sandwiches or toast.

Related Categories

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Region: British

Taste: Crusty, Sweet, Nutty, Aromatic, Soft