Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups (500 ml) lukewarm water
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 5 cups (625 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) sea salt
- 1 cup (125 g) whole wheat flour
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Dough hook
- Large bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the lukewarm water, active dry yeast, honey, and olive oil. Stir to combine and let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Add the all-purpose flour, sea salt, and whole wheat flour to the bowl and mix with the dough hook attachment on low speed for 5 minutes.
3. Increase the speed to medium and mix for an additional 5 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and divide into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round.
7. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 30 minutes.
8. Using a sharp knife, make a shallow cut in the center of each round.
9. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Let cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
Serving Size: 8
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Protein: 6 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: bread flour
- Whole wheat flour: rye flour
- Honey: maple syrup
- Olive oil: vegetable oil
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup (60 g) of chopped nuts or dried fruit for added flavor.
- Substitute the all-purpose flour for spelt flour for a nuttier flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the water is lukewarm to ensure the yeast is activated.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve with butter and jam or honey.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of tea or coffee.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side salad or soup.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
Food History:
Pain au levain is a traditional French bread made with a sourdough starter. It is a rustic bread that has been enjoyed for centuries.
Flavor Profiles:
This bread has a slightly sour flavor from the sourdough starter and a nutty flavor from the whole wheat flour.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a side to a meal or as an accompaniment to cheese or charcuterie.
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Region: French