Baking your own bread can be a rewarding experience, offering you the joy of creating something that's not just delicious, but also nutritious. Ezekiel bread, known for its rich, hearty flavor and health benefits, has gained popularity among those seeking a wholesome alternative to conventional bread. This blog post will walk you through an Easy Ezekiel Bread Recipe that promises simplicity, nutrition, and an utterly delicious outcome.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups of hard red wheat
- 1 cup of barley
- 1⁄2 cup of spelt or millet
- 1⁄4 cup of lentils (green preferred)
- 1⁄4 cup of white beans (Great Northern or Navy beans)
- 1⁄4 cup of kidney beans
- 1⁄4 cup of chickpeas
- 2 cups of water for soaking
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp honey or molasses
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sprout Your Grains and Beans:
Begin by soaking your grains and legumes in separate bowls with water. They should soak for about 12-18 hours, changing the water once or twice during this time to aid in the sprouting process. Once soaked, drain and rinse them, then leave them in a cool, dark place to sprout. Check every few hours, ensuring they are damp but not submerged. Sprouting can take 1 to 3 days, depending on temperature and grain type.
🌱 Note: Proper sprouting is crucial for neutralizing phytic acid, making nutrients more bioavailable and improving digestibility.
- Blend and Ferment:
After sprouting, blend all grains and legumes until smooth. The mixture should be slightly chunky, resembling thick porridge. Add 2 cups of water, salt, and honey or molasses. Let this mixture ferment at room temperature for approximately 8 hours, or overnight. Fermentation helps break down proteins and further enhances digestibility.
- Preparing Your Dough:
After fermentation, your dough will have a tangy smell. Give it another quick blend if needed, ensuring a smooth consistency. If your mixture is too thick, add water slowly until you achieve a pourable consistency, but don’t make it too thin.
- Bake Your Ezekiel Bread:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or oil it well. Pour the mixture into the pan, filling it about 3⁄4 full to allow for rising. Bake for approximately 1 hour. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing it while warm can lead to crumbling due to its dense texture.
- Storage and Enjoyment:
Ezekiel bread stores well in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or can be frozen for longer storage. When ready to enjoy, toast slices for a hearty, crunchy texture or eat them as is with your favorite spread.
Nutritional Benefits:
Ezekiel bread, composed of sprouted grains and legumes, offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Complete Proteins: With a mix of grains and legumes, it provides all essential amino acids.
- Low Glycemic Index: Sprouting reduces the glycemic impact, making it ideal for managing blood sugar levels.
- High in Fibre: Enhances digestion and aids in weight control.
- Packed with Nutrients: Sprouting increases the availability of vitamins, especially Vitamin C, and minerals.
With this Easy Ezekiel Bread Recipe, you've unlocked the gateway to homemade, health-boosting bread. Its unique blend of sprouted grains and legumes not only elevates its nutritional profile but also imparts a delightful taste that's satisfyingly different from store-bought varieties. Remember, baking Ezekiel bread is not just about creating food; it's about nurturing your body with ancient wisdom adapted for modern living. So, go ahead, bake a loaf, and enjoy the wholesome goodness of every slice!
Why is sprouting important in Ezekiel bread?
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Sprouting neutralizes phytic acid, making nutrients more available for absorption. This process also enhances digestibility and can increase the nutritional value of the grains and legumes used.
Can I make Ezekiel bread without fermenting?
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Fermentation helps break down proteins, improving digestibility. While it’s possible to skip fermentation, you might not achieve the same health benefits or taste. You could still get a good loaf, but it’s recommended to ferment for optimal results.
What’s the shelf life of Ezekiel bread?
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When stored in the refrigerator, Ezekiel bread can last for up to 7 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen, preserving its freshness for several months.
