Anyone like to share their recipe for delicious bread? (no breadmaker)

[FleetwoodRaincoat]

I've often attempted to make bread in the past, but it never really turns out quite right.

Ideally I'd like to make a large, white loaf that tastes delicious. Does anyone have/can link to a really foolproof, tasty recipe?

Thanks.

When you say it doesn’t quite turn out right, is there anything in particular that’s wrong with it?

I’ve found that many recipes for handmade bread have nowhere near enough liquid. That makes the dough easier to handle, but also results in a really dense loaf. The “handy tip” to add flour if you find the dough too sticky to work with, has the same effect, so try not to do that.

Another problem is that many recipes really rush the bread making process. Sure, you can make a loaf of bread in 2 hours, but it’s unlikely to be an amazing loaf of bread! Good bread takes time.

Whatever recipe I use, I like to start with a much smaller amount of yeast (e.g a teaspoon) than the packet of yeast that’s normally recommended. For the first rise, I just let it sit for 6-8 hours or even longer. It’s a good thing to do overnight, or while you’re at work! The second rise will be the length suggested in the recipe.

Here’s a recipe: www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/paul_hollywoods_bloomer_84636

I hope that helps!

Fresh yeast! Our local bakers sells it, as do some veg box delivery people.

Try Bake with Jack- website and YouTube

This is pretty foolproof thehappyfoodie.co.uk/recipes/the-easiest-mug-bread

This Dan Lepard one is foolproof. Rises beautifully and tastes delicious: www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2010/oct/02/sour-cream-sandwich-bread-recipe

This one (also Dan Lepard) is equally easy and delicious: www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2007/nov/24/foodanddrink.baking8

Just make sure you give your dough plenty of time to rise, especially as it's winter.

www.hobbshousebakery.co.uk/blogs/recipes/140085191-white-bread-recipe

This is fantastic and very reliable.

I second the Dan Lepard sour cream loaf, it's the one Nigella made on her recent series. I make it quite often to use up the half a carton sour cream we have left from something else.

The other Dan Lepard one is great too as the sponge method will improve the flavour. I tend to mix the sponge the day before, leave on the counter and proceed the next day.

I also like his minimal kneading, more time approach.

I also agree with having the dough wetter and not adding more flour to reduce stickiness, that will result in a dry brick. You can knead on an oiled surface instead of flour but I just turn it a few times in the bowl, it becomes smooth and elastic and less sticky.

I have made improvements to my loaves by having the right sized tin, the higher the sides the better and a good deep slash down the middle from end to end just before baking.

@Blondie1984

Try Bake with Jack- website and YouTube

I agree. Bake with Jacks method for a simple white loaf works every time. I make two as it really is the same amount of effort.

Definitely try Paul Hollywood's bloomer recipe, absolutely delicious, perfect every time and very easy. Just make sure you measure everything exactly.

Thanks so much for all your suggestions. Going to give them all a go!

Mumsnet soda bread