Simple white bread is one of the oldest and most cherished staple foods in world cuisine. Its origin dates back thousands of years, when the first civilizations began to grind grains and create dough for baking. In Latin America, although white bread is universally known as "white bread," in some countries it is also called "sandwich bread" or simply "homemade bread." This type of bread has been adapted to different cultures and tastes, but always maintains its soft texture and neutral flavor that makes it perfect to accompany any meal or to prepare sandwiches.
Simple white bread shares similarities with traditional breads from countries like Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela, although each region has its special touch. While in Mexico it can be found made with lard or butter, in Colombia and Venezuela it is common to prepare it with vegetable oil to achieve greater softness. Its popularity is due to the simplicity of its ingredients and the accessible process for both beginners and experts alike.
How to Make Simple White Bread
Ingredients: Water, Yeast, Sugar, Salt, Vegetable Oil, Flour.
Steps:
Mix the water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl.
Add the salt to 5 1/2 cups of flour in a large bowl.
Reserve the other cup of flour.
Mix the liquid and the dry ingredients and then add the oil.
Mix until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl, sprinkle a bit of the last cup of flour onto a wooden surface and knead until the dough is sticky again.
Keep adding more flour and continue kneading.
Push forward, fold, push forward, fold.
I do this with one hand because I have to do it that way, but it works.
Put a little oil in the large bowl that has been cleaned, add the kneaded dough, and turn it a few times to coat it.
Cover and let it rest for about one hour in a warm place.
Punch down the dough, cut it in half, and roll it out into a rectangle about 9 by 18 inches.
Roll it up, tuck the ends, and place it in a well-greased glass loaf pan.
Repeat with the other half, then cover with a cloth and let it rise again for about 45 minutes.
Use a sharp knife to make a few slashes on the top, brush with a bit of beaten egg or milk, and place in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for 30 minutes.
The bread is ready when an instant-read thermometer reads 190.
