Regional > Appalachian

Easy Salt-Rising Bread Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Loaf pan
- Baking sheet

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, salt, cornmeal, and melted butter. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.

2. Add the flour and yeast and mix until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes.

4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

6. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

7. Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Let cool before slicing.

Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 1 loaf

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 7g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Sugar: honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar
- Cornmeal: oat flour, almond flour, or coconut flour
- All-purpose flour: whole wheat flour or spelt flour

Variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a savory flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of dried fruit such as raisins, cranberries, or cherries for a sweet flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the water is warm (105-115°F) to activate the yeast.
- Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes to ensure a light and airy texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for the best results.

Storage Instructions:
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the bread in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Slice the bread and serve with butter and jam.
- Toast the bread and top with avocado and eggs.
- Cut the bread into cubes and serve with a dip.

Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano
- Toasted nuts such as walnuts or almonds
- Sliced fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries

Pairings:
- Salads
- Soups
- Stews

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled cheese
- Mashed potatoes

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the bread is not rising, make sure the water is warm enough to activate the yeast.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Make sure the water is at the correct temperature (105-115°F).
- Make sure the bread is cooked through before serving.

Food History:
Salt-rising bread is a traditional bread that originated in the Appalachian Mountains of the United States. It is made with a sourdough starter and is known for its light and airy texture.

Flavor Profiles:
This bread has a light and slightly tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness from the sugar.

Serving Suggestions:
- Slice the bread and serve with butter and jam.
- Toast the bread and top with avocado and eggs.
- Cut the bread into cubes and serve with a dip.

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Taste: Savory, Salty, Nutty, Aromatic, Earthy