Easy Homemade Water Bread Recipe | Soft & Delicious

Easy and delicious recipe for homemade water bread. Perfect for breakfast or snacks, this simple and tasty delight is ideal for the whole family.

Summary

• Ingredients
• Preparation Method
• Tips and Variations
• CHEF’s Tips

Ingredients

Dough:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 320ml lukewarm water
• 10g salt
• 5g active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparation Method

1. In a bowl, mix the lukewarm water with the active dry yeast and olive oil.
2. Add the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well until a homogeneous dough is obtained.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rest for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. Shape the water bread as desired and place it on a greased and floured baking sheet.
7. Make shallow cuts on the top of the bread.
8. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool before serving.

Tips and Variations

• For a crispier water bread, place a baking pan with water on the bottom rack of the oven during baking.
• Add sesame or chia seeds to the dough for extra flavor.
• Try using different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rye.
• Serve the water bread with cheeses, pâtés, or flavored olive oils.
• Water bread can also be frozen after baking.

CHEF’s Tips

The key to a perfect water bread is in the dough’s hydration. Ensure the water is lukewarm, but not hot, to avoid deactivating the yeast. Kneading is essential for developing gluten, resulting in a soft water bread with good structure. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it and make the bread heavy. The resting time is also crucial: respect the resting period for the dough to rise properly. For a more attractive appearance, brush the water bread with olive oil before baking and sprinkle with flour. Try adding fresh chopped herbs to the dough for an extra touch of flavor. Water bread is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your taste, allowing for various ingredient combinations.