Baking bread is a science, and can be more challenging than a 3 course meal! I LOVE to cook and have for decades….but baking is a whole other ballgame. When I make a delicious meal, I am sometimes simply winging it, adding a new herb or spice, tasting it as I go till I feel its perfect. I feel comfortable enough with what I’m doing, know what I like, and risky enough to try new ingredients to alter a favorite or new dish. Baking is more challenging, so I called in the troops!
Baking requires precision, exact measurements, and lots of practice!
My mother in law Diana is a wonderful cook and I’ve learned so much from her over the years. I thought I would ask her to help me make a favorite bread she does so beautifully.
*** Prepare dough at least 12-18 hours prior to baking
3 cups plus 2 tablespoons bread flour
2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
1 cup chopped raw walnuts
1 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons Honey ( I use my friends HoloHolo Honeybees)
1.5 cup warm bottled water (95 degrees) use thermometer
Directions:
In large non greased bowl mix first 6 ingredients. Stir in water.
Dough will be very sticky — don’t be tempted to add more flour — sticy dough is good.
Flour hands, gently shape dough into a ball as best you can.
Cover dough with plastic wrap and dish towel, and let “rest” on counter, minimum 14 hours to 18.
Dough will double in size.
Preheat oven to 475 and put dutch oven and lid in oven for 30 minutes one hour before baking.
Turn dough over on sheet of parchment paper with just a sprinkle of flour. Form a ball as best you can but don’t over handle. Cover with plastic wrap a half hour.
Place dough on its parchment paper inside dutch oven and cover with lid.
Bake for 25 minutes. Remove lid and bake another 8-10 minutes until bread is golden.
Remove bread and allow to cool.
Enjoy plain, covered in vegan butter, or any nut butter of choice!
Lindsey is an accomplished plant-based chef, professional actress and cooking teacher who is lending her talents to the movement of bringing health-supportive, plant-based cuisine into the mainstream. She will introduce you to the wonderful world of plant-based goodness, that can transform your physical and ultimately spiritual and mental wellness.
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