The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Soft and Moist Vegan Bread
As a vegan chef, I have always been searching for delicious and simple recipes that everybody can enjoy. And when it comes to bread, there is nothing like a fresh loaf straight from the oven. That’s why I am excited to share with you the simplest vegan bread recipe ever!
Making your own bread might sound intimidating, but this recipe couldn’t be easier. It only requires a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. And the best part? You don’t need to be an experienced baker to make this vegan bread.
In just a few steps, you’ll have a crusty and delicious loaf of bread that is perfect for your morning toast, sandwiches or even as a side for a hearty soup. So, let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear friends, I have to tell you about this vegan bread recipe. It ranks high on my list of all-time favorite foods, and once you give it a try, you’ll understand why.
First and foremost, it’s vegan bread that anyone can make at home with ease. This recipe only requires 4 simple ingredients: flour, yeast, salt, and extra virgin olive oil. That’s it! No complicated or hard-to-find ingredients necessary.
Secondly, this bread recipe is incredibly versatile. You can eat it straight out of the oven with a drizzle of olive oil or use it as a base for your favorite sandwich creations. The crust is firm and crusty while the center has a soft and chewy texture.
Thirdly, this vegan bread recipe is perfect for those who are always on-the-go. It does not require any extensive kneading or long proofing times. Everything from start to finish can be done in as little as 90 minutes.
Finally, this recipe is completely plant-based, making it an excellent choice for vegans or those trying to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet without sacrificing taste or quality.
So what are you waiting for? Give this easy vegan bread recipe a try and see for yourself why it’s called the “Easiest, Simplest Vegan Bread Ever.”
Ingredient List
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s gather all of the ingredients you’ll need. Don’t worry, this crusty vegan bread requires only four simple ingredients:
- 4 cups of unbleached flour
- 2 tablespoons of active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 3/4 cups of hot water
That’s it! No fancy or hard-to-find ingredients here – just pantry staples that you most likely already have on hand. Make sure to use unbleached flour for optimal results. It gives the bread a nice texture and flavor that you won’t find in white bread. As for the active dry yeast, I find that it works best in this recipe. Other types of yeast may not yield the same results.
The Recipe How-To
Follow these simple steps and you’ll have the easiest, simplest vegan bread ever made in no time.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of unbleached flour
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups of warm water (105°-110°F)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add in the olive oil and mix well.
- Pour in the warm water and stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a clean surface for about five minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough into an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for an hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then shape it into a round or oval-shaped loaf.
- Place the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or into a greased bread pan.
- Cut slits into the top of the dough with a sharp knife or scissors.
- Put the bread in a warm place to rise for another half-hour.
- Bake the bread for around 30 minutes or until golden brown on top and it sounds hollow when tapped.
Serve your freshly baked vegan bread with some hummus or avocado spread, toast it for breakfast, or use it as a base for your perfect sandwich!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or want to switch things up a bit, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try with this bread recipe.
For a crustier bread, try reducing the amount of hot water by 1/4 cup and increasing the yeast to 2 1/4 teaspoons. You can also add some rosemary or garlic powder to the dough for an aromatic twist.
If you prefer whole grain bread, substitute half of the unbleached flour with whole wheat flour or other whole grain flour of your choice. You may need to add an additional tablespoon of water to the dough as whole grain flours tend to absorb more liquid than all-purpose flours.
For a plant-based milk option, feel free to use any milk that suits your preference such as soy milk, almond milk or even coconut milk. These will not affect the texture or rise of the bread in any way.
If you want a quick bread that doesn’t require any kneading or rising time, try making soda bread instead. Simply mix together 2 cups of flour with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 cup of plant-based milk until a dough forms. Knead briefly, then shape into a round loaf and bake at 425°F for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Experiment with different toppings like sesame seeds, chia seeds or poppy seeds before baking for added crunch and flavor. You can also add cooked grains like quinoa or rice to the recipe for more texture and nutrition.
Remember that substitutions may slightly alter the taste and texture of the bread, so be sure to pay attention to how it turns out when using different ingredients. But don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun!
Serving and Pairing
The simplicity and versatility of this vegan bread recipe make it a perfect pairing for nearly any meal or occasion. The crusty exterior and tender interior provide a blank canvas for pairing with a wide range of savory or sweet flavor combinations.
For a classic serving suggestion, slice the bread into thick pieces and enjoy alongside a hearty soup or salad. The bread’s crusty texture makes it ideal for sopping up leftover broth or dressing, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Alternatively, try using the bread in your favorite sandwich recipes. Whether you prefer classic peanut butter and jelly, vegan brioche bread for a sweet french toast twist, or making a sandwich with your preferred filling – this simple vegan bread will support any filling flavors without taking over.
Looking for something more savory? Whip up some homemade garlic butter (butter substitute that uses olive oil) to spread onto warm slices of bread. Or try dipping chunks of the bread into some creamy hummus or spicy tomato chutney for an elegant appetizer perfect for almost any type of gather.
The pairing possibilities for this versatile vegan bread recipe are endless, allowing cooks to explore different flavors and cuisines while always having a reliable base that will bring out the best in your dishes.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you have baked your vegan bread, there are several options for storing it. The good news is that this bread stays fresh for up to four days if stored properly. To store the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a resealable bag. Alternatively, you can store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature.
If you plan on reheating your bread, it is best to do so in an oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the bread from any wrapping or container and place it in the center of a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the interior is heated through.
If you need to reheat your bread quickly, you can use a microwave. Slice the bread into individual portions and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Reheat the slices for 15-20 seconds each or until they are warm.
Making this vegan bread ahead of time is also an easy option. Once baked, you can freeze the loaf for up to two months without affecting its texture or flavor. To freeze the loaf of bread, wrap it tightly in both plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a resealable bag.
When ready to eat, simply defrost the loaf at room temperature before reheating it following one of the methods outlined above.
This crusty vegan bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast or as a side with your favorite vegan dishes. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it an excellent recipe option for those who love baking but are short on time.
Tips for Perfect Results
Achieving the perfect result for your vegan bread can be tricky. That’s why I’m giving you some tips to make sure you get the crusty bread you’ve been dreaming of.
Firstly, make sure to measure all your ingredients accurately. A slight variation in the amount of flour or water can throw off the balance of your dough, resulting in a dense loaf.
Secondly, don’t rush the rising process. Yeast thrives in a warm and moist environment so make sure to place your dough in a draft-free and warm spot. I like to cover my dough with a damp towel and place it by a sunny window – this helps to achieve the perfect rise.
Thirdly, knead the dough well. The gluten in the flour needs to be activated to ensure good texture and structure in your vegan bread. Kneading helps build that structure. Consider investing in a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment if you’re not keen on kneading by hand.
Another tip for great vegan bread is to use a baking stone or a cast-iron skillet instead of a baking sheet. This ensures that heat is distributed evenly throughout, resulting in a crispy crust.
Lastly, let your bread cool completely before slicing into it. Cutting into hot bread right out of the oven may cause it to collapse, leaving you with a dense loaf that no one wants to eat.
By following these tips, you’ll be making delicious vegan bread that will have everyone asking for seconds!
FAQ
Before wrapping up this recipe article, let’s address some common questions and concerns about making this easiest, simplest vegan bread. Here are some frequently asked questions that may come in handy for beginner and experienced bakers alike.
What is the best bread on a vegan diet?
There are various types of bread out there, each with their unique characteristics and ingredients. Some include sourdough, a fermented bread made from flour, salt, water, and yeast. Others include pita, a flatbread composed of flour, water, salt, and yeast, and ciabatta and baguette, which are long, thin loaves with a crispy crust and soft interior. There’s also Ezekiel bread, kosher bread, focaccia, and many others. As a vegan chef, I’ve discovered that experimenting with different types of bread can be a fun and exciting way to keep my dishes diverse and engaging. In this recipe article, I’ll be sharing some tips and recommendations for using bread as a vegan ingredient, as well as a recipe for a delicious vegan sandwich.
What do vegans use for bread?
Bread is generally considered a vegan-friendly food since its basic components consist of flour, water, salt, yeast, and oil, all of which are plant-based ingredients.
Is Ezekiel bread vegan?
Looking for a healthy and nutritious vegan bread option? Look no further than Ezekiel bread! Made from organic, sprouted grains, this bread is not only 100% vegan but comes packed with nutrients while also being low in sodium. To get your hands on this plant-based protein source, check out Food For Life’s vegan bread at a store near you.
What are quick breads always made without?
Quick breads are a type of bread recipe that do not require the use of yeast to achieve a rise. Instead, they use leavening agents such as baking soda and baking powder. Unlike traditional breads, quick breads do not need to be proofed or kneaded.
Bottom Line
in the End, choosing to bake your bread rather than buying it from the store is not only a healthier option but also more cost-effective. This easiest, simplest vegan bread recipe will not only make your life easier and save you time, but it will also create a crusty, delicious bread that you and your family will love. By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you can create a perfect loaf of vegan bread at home with minimal effort. So why not eliminate the need for store-bought bread? With this recipe, you can enjoy warm and freshly baked bread anytime you want and feel proud of having made it yourself. Give it a try and taste the difference!
The Easiest, Simplest Vegan Bread Ever! Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups unbleached flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 (2 1/4 teaspoon) packet active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 3/4 cups hot water (about 105 degrees)
Instructions
- in a large bowl mix together flour, salt, and yeast, and form a well in the bottom.
- pour in water and add the oil.
- with a wooden spoon slowly pull the flour into the liquid until it's fully adsorbed.
- work it into a ball with your hands and place on a floured work surface.
- the dough should be tacky but not hopelessly sticky. sprinkle flour on the work surface and hands if needed; continue to knead the dough for 5-10 minutes or until the dough becomes elastic.
- rinse and grease the large bowl, then place the dough back in it. cover lightly with damp cloth or plastic wrap. let rise in warm place (i usually turn on my oven and place the dough on the stove above it) until double in size (about 1 to 1-1/2 hours).
- turn dough back out onto floured surface. punch down and kneed slightly to work out air bubbles.
- divide the dough in half, form round loaves and place on lightly oiled pans. preheat oven to 375F and let dough rise 20 more minutes.
- bake 30-40 min until crusts golden. you can also throw 1/2 C of water on the bottom coils 10 minutes in for "crustier" bread.
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.