Introduction to Ezekiel Bread
Welcome to my kitchen, and this time I’m so thrilled to present one very, very healthy yet super delicious recipe: Ezekiel Bread. And if you are anything like me, perpetually scouting healthier replacements for the kind of stuff one picks up from a store, this bread is going to be a game-changer for you. Super nutritious … and hey, that’s an easy way to feed all our busy families, right? So … Nutritious and so tasty, you can get hooked on it forever. The best part is that this recipe is that simple to prepare on any Sunday evening and fill the house up with such a nice appealing fragrance. Seriously, once you get that taste of this healthy pie with its fine texture and mild sweetness, you will never like others.
Why You’ll Love This Ezekiel Bread
If you’re searching for a delicious and nutritious bread, look no further! Ezekiel Bread is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It boasts a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with everything from avocado to hummus. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a fulfilling option for busy days. In just over an hour, you can enjoy fresh, homemade bread that your whole family will love.
Ingredients for Ezekiel Bread
Gathering the right ingredients for Ezekiel Bread is a delightful adventure in itself. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wheat Flour: A staple that brings structure and a hearty flavor to the bread.
- Barley Flour: Adds a unique taste and makes the bread even more nutritious.
- Lentils: Cooked and mashed for protein and fiber, these tiny legumes work wonders in our dough!
- Millet Flour: This gluten-free flour gives a subtle sweetness—not to mention it jazzes up the nutrient profile!
- Rye Flour: A bit of this hearty flour deepens the flavor, bringing a rustic touch.
- Water: The magic potion that melds all ingredients together, a crucial player in our bread’s success.
- Salt: Enhances flavor while strengthening the dough structure—don’t skip this star ingredient!
- Olive Oil: For moisture and a lovely richness, plus it’s heart-healthy.
- Yeast: The leavening champion! It helps our bread rise, creating that perfect airy texture.
- Honey: Adds a hint of sweetness and serves as food for the yeast, giving the bread a lovely flavor.
If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, you can always replace honey with maple syrup. Remember, the exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, perfect for your printing needs. Happy baking!
How to Make Ezekiel Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
First off, let’s get that yeast into action! In a small bowl, combine warm water with honey. The water needs to be warm, but not boiling—think of a cozy bath for our yeast. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about ten minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it gets all frothy and bubbly. That’s your yeast waking up and preparing to give life to our delicious Ezekiel Bread. The aroma is just so inviting!
Step 2: Combine the Flours
Now comes the fun part! Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your wheat flour, barley flour, millet flour, and rye flour. I love using a whisk to mix them; it feels like I’m blending together a piece of homemade magic. Make sure everything is well mixed and no flour lumps remain. This delightful blend gives our bread an amazing texture and flavor, filling it with all the goodness we’re after. Trust me; your kitchen will smell fantastic!
Step 3: Blend the Lentils
Time to bring the lentils into the spotlight! In a blender, toss in your cooked lentils, olive oil, and a splash of water. Blend until you have a smooth mixture that resembles a creamy soup. Then, transfer this lentil goodness into a large mixing bowl with the remaining water. This mix is what gives Ezekiel Bread its unique characteristic and boosts the protein content. The creamy texture will make the dough lovely and moist!
Step 4: Mix Ingredients
Now it’s time to unite our two mixes! Gradually stir in two cups of the combined flour into the lentil mixture. Make sure to blend it in slowly, creating a uniform dough without any lumps. Then, add the yeast mixture, stirring all the while. This is where the magic truly begins. The combined flavors and aromas start to fill your kitchen! The dough should start taking shape; it will be sticky at first, but don’t worry, that’s normal!
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Ready to get your hands a bit messy? Dust your countertop with some flour and scoop the dough out onto the surface. Knead it for about eight to ten minutes. You want the dough to become smooth and elastic. This kneading process is essential; think of it as giving the dough a warm hug! When it’s done, it should have a soft and slightly tacky texture that feels nice to the touch. Your hard work will pay off!
Step 6: Let It Rise
Once the dough is kneaded to perfection, place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel, making sure it’s cozy. Now let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—it usually takes about one hour. This step is all about patience! Once it’s risen, punch it down gently to release some air. This helps create that marvelous dense structure we love in Ezekiel Bread.
Step 7: Shape and Second Rise
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into loaves. Lightly flour your countertop again and divide the dough into four equal portions. Shape each piece into a loaf and place them in greased pans. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30 minutes. It’s amazing how much the dough expands during this second rise! It’s like watching a small miracle happen in your kitchen.
Step 8: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F, making sure it’s hot enough to give those loaves a proper bake. Once the oven is ready, pop the loaves in and let them bake for 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the house is filled with an irresistible aroma. Don’t forget to tap the bottom of a loaf; it should sound hollow. Let them cool on a rack, but honestly, who can resist tasting a warm slice fresh out of the oven?
Tips for Success
- Measure your ingredients accurately for best results; use a kitchen scale if possible.
- Ensure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast can lead to flat bread.
- Use warm, not hot, water to activate the yeast, keeping it cozy!
- Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this is key to great texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal results.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing dough; you can use a sturdy pot if needed.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for precise ingredient measurements; consider using a kitchen scale.
- Blender: For smoothly blending lentils; a food processor works too!
- Loaf Pans: Ideal for shaping loaves; muffin tins can be a fun alternative for mini loaves.
- Kitchen Towel: To cover the dough during rising; a clean dish cloth works just as well.
Variations of Ezekiel Bread
- Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist.
- Seeds Galore: Mix in sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or flaxseeds for an extra crunch and nutritional boost.
- Nuts & Dried Fruits: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds and dried fruits such as cranberries for a sweet touch!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat and barley flour, ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that elevates your breakfast toast.
Serving Suggestions for Ezekiel Bread
- Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
- Pair with creamy avocado spread and a sprinkle of sea salt for a nutritious breakfast.
- Use slices for hearty sandwiches, filling them with your favorite veggies or deli meats.
- Toast a slice, then top with almond butter and banana slices for a delicious snack.
- Accompany with a fresh green salad or a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal.
FAQs about Ezekiel Bread
What is Ezekiel Bread?
Ezekiel Bread is a nutritious, whole grain bread made from sprouted whole grains and legumes, such as wheat, barley, lentils, and millet. This combination boosts the protein and fiber content, making it a healthy choice for many diets.
Is Ezekiel Bread gluten-free?
Traditional Ezekiel Bread contains gluten, as it’s made from wheat and barley flours. However, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting gluten-free flours and ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How can I store Ezekiel Bread?
To keep your Ezekiel Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice it and freeze it to enjoy it later without losing flavor or texture.
Can I modify the recipe for dietary preferences?
Absolutely! You can adjust the ingredients in this healthy bread recipe to fit your dietary needs. For instance, replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option or incorporate different seeds and nuts for added flavor.
How can I serve Ezekiel Bread?
Ezekiel Bread is incredibly versatile! You can enjoy it as toast topped with avocado, make sandwiches with it, or serve it alongside soups and salads as a hearty accompaniment.
Final Thoughts
Baking Ezekiel Bread has truly been a joyful journey for me. The simple act of mixing wholesome ingredients transforms into a nourishing loaf that brings my family together. Each slice is not just a healthier alternative; it’s a strong reminder of the love and care that goes into homemade meals. Seeing my loved ones enjoy this delightful bread fills my heart with warmth and satisfaction. Plus, the engaging process of kneading and rising allows for a little mindfulness amidst our busy lives. I hope you experience the same joy and satisfaction as you bring this delightful bread into your home.
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Ezekiel Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 loaves 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A nutritious recipe for homemade Ezekiel Bread, known for its wholesome ingredients and health benefits.
Ingredients
- 8 cups wheat flour
- 4 cups barley flour
- 2 cups lentils cooked and mashed
- 1/2 cup millet flour (grind up millet in the blender)
- 1/4 cup rye flour
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 4–6 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 1/4 ounce packets yeast (or 1 tablespoon yeast)
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water and honey, let sit for 10 minutes.
- Mix wheat, barley, millet, and rye flour together.
- Blend lentils, oil, and a small amount of water in a blender, then combine with remaining water in a large bowl.
- Stir in two cups of the mixed flour, then add yeast mixture.
- Gradually add remaining salt and flour, kneading until smooth.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl and let rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough, shape into 4 loaves, and place in greased pans.
- Let rise again until doubled, then bake at 375°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Notes
- Ensure the lentils are well-cooked and mashed for a smooth consistency.
- You can adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Health
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
