The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home is one of life's simplest pleasures. B&M Brown Bread with Raisins is a unique treat that stands out for its rich, molasses flavor and sweet undertones from the raisins, all in a steam-cooked loaf that boasts an unmistakable texture. Traditionally, this bread is known for its distinctive cylindrical shape, often sold in cans, offering a culinary experience that's both nostalgic and uniquely delicious. However, with this homemade recipe, you'll not only recreate the beloved B&M Brown Bread but elevate it with the personal touch of homemade baking. Let’s dive into crafting your own loaf of this treasured bread.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour
- 1 cup of rye flour
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄3 cup molasses
- 1⁄4 cup of honey
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1⁄2 cup of raisins
- 1⁄4 cup of warm water
Preparation
Here’s how to bring this delightful bread to life:
- Mixing the Dry Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, rye flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Ensure they are well mixed to avoid clumps.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the molasses, honey, and buttermilk. This combination not only provides moisture but also infuses the bread with its signature sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Combine and Mix: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, stirring until you have a well-combined, thick batter. Fold in the raisins gently to distribute them evenly.
- Steaming Setup: Instead of baking, B&M Brown Bread is typically steamed. Here's how you can recreate this process at home:
- Take a large pot, fill it with enough water to come up about halfway up the sides of a 2-pound coffee can or other similar heat-safe container.
- Place a steamer basket or an inverted plate into the pot to elevate your bread container, ensuring it doesn't touch the water directly.
- Lightly grease your can or container, pour in the batter to about 2/3 full, and cover the top with aluminum foil, secured tightly with a rubber band.
- Steam the Bread: Set the can into the pot, cover it, and allow the water to reach a simmer. Steam for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Make sure to check the water level periodically, adding more hot water as needed to keep it from evaporating completely.
- Cooling and Removing: Once done, carefully remove the can from the pot and let the bread cool inside for about 30 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges to loosen, and carefully extract the bread. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
⚠️ Note: Be very cautious when removing the bread from the can; it will be hot, and the steam can cause burns. Use oven mitts or heavy-duty kitchen gloves.
Serving Suggestions
B&M Brown Bread is a versatile loaf that pairs wonderfully with many dishes:
- With Soups and Stews: Serve sliced alongside hearty stews or bean soups for a comforting meal.
- As a Breakfast Bread: Enjoy toasted with butter or as part of a breakfast spread with jams, cheeses, and fruits.
- Sandwiches: Make a twist on your traditional sandwich with slices of this unique bread.
- Accompaniment: Simply serve with a spread of cream cheese or goat cheese, enhancing its sweet, molasses flavor.
In crafting your own homemade B&M Brown Bread, you've not only recreated a nostalgic taste but also brought a piece of culinary history into your kitchen. The process of steaming and preparing this bread is an act of patience and tradition that's well worth the effort. Each slice tells a story, evoking memories or perhaps creating new ones. Whether enjoyed in the morning with coffee or as part of a more substantial meal, this bread's unique flavor profile will surely become a cherished part of your baking repertoire.
As you revel in the homemade taste of your B&M Brown Bread with Raisins, remember that the journey from flour to loaf is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients combined with time-honored techniques. With each loaf, you not only nourish your body but also feed your soul with the warmth of home-cooked goodness.
What makes B&M Brown Bread unique?
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B&M Brown Bread is unique due to its steam-cooked method, which gives it a dense yet moist texture, combined with its sweet and rich flavors from molasses and raisins. Traditionally, it’s sold in cylindrical cans, offering an authentic shape that adds to its distinctive appeal.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
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You can experiment with different types of flour, but using rye and whole wheat gives the bread its distinctive taste. Honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a different flavor profile, and if you’re avoiding raisins, try other dried fruits like cranberries or dates.
How do I store the bread to keep it fresh?
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Keep your homemade bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and storing it at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider slicing and freezing portions in freezer-safe bags, allowing you to enjoy a piece anytime.
Why is the bread steamed instead of baked?
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Steaming helps to retain moisture, giving the bread its characteristic texture. It also allows for the slow development of flavors and prevents the loaf from becoming overly crusty, which is perfect for the intended texture of B&M Brown Bread.
Can I make this bread without a steamer?
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Yes, you can simulate steaming by using a covered pot with a makeshift steamer basket or even by wrapping the batter-filled can in aluminum foil and placing it in a slow cooker with some water to create a steam environment. Just ensure the bread container doesn’t touch the water.
