Have you ever wondered why there are a million cookbooks for bread? It’s something that our ancestors seemingly mastered as early as 8000 BC, but we still somehow need help. Bread is an ever growing art, especially as cultures begin meshing together. Everyone is experimenting with different ways of creating beautiful loaves. But is it possible we are forgetting the art of bread making?
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Most of us lead busy lives – end of story. Thawing a frozen dinner can be a huge job for a lot of families, so undertaking the task of making homemade bread is asking a lot. I love the Bread: Mix, Knead, Bake―A Beginner’s Guide to Bread Making cookbook, because it gently reminds us to slow down and enjoy the process. Making bread doesn’t have to be stressful, in fact, we can learn a lot while baking.
There is really nothing better than the smell and taste of fresh bread. I believe because we are so overwhelmed with everyday life that we don’t invest in cooking as much as our grandparents might have. The author, Adams Media, explains that bread making can be cathartic and help you feel in control. The result of homemade bread is worth it. Perhaps the key is to reframe how we approach the process. Instead of “work” think of it as “me time” with a big reward at the end.
Bread: Mix, Knead, Bake―A Beginner’s Guide to Bread Making cookbook will help us understand bread baking from all around the world. The first few chapters break down basic bread making techniques from kneading, mixing, and vital ingredients. This cookbook also talks about different tools used for different breads which will make the baking process effortless as you attempt your first bake.
There are 100 recipes for all levels of bread making. This includes both sweet and savory treats for you and your family to enjoy. This book could do with chapters, but I understand why it’s basically an open book to bread. There is some kind of “order” to the layout of Bread: Mix, Knead, Bake―A Beginner’s Guide to Bread Making cookbook. We start with basic loaves, then move on to specialty breads like naan, buns, rolls, and brioche. That way, you can dip your feet in and try a little of everything.
Unfortunately (mostly for me) all of these recipes are glutenous, dairy filled treats! If you’re looking for a baking cookbook that goes into alternatives, this is not the beginner bread book for you.
This cookbook shows us that baking bread truly doesn’t require a lot of ingredients – most things you will find in your home right now. Not only that, your bread will be sitting in the oven longer than you will be handling dough. This cookbook will prove that all it takes is a little love and a little time! Maybe having freshly baked bread every week isn’t as far fetched as we think.
To make this more stress-free, coerce your family to join you! Make a tradition on the weekends to make fresh bread. Not only will you have help, but also a great bonding opportunity.
~Kaiti
