Healthy Grain Bread Recipe

This recipe presents a nutritious and flavorful bread made with a mixture of various grains, seeds, and fresh vegetables. Designed for those who appreciate wholesome and hearty meals, this bread combines oats, barley, wheat, rye, and multi-grain flakes to create a delicious and filling loaf. Adding fresh carrots and cheese not only enhances the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value. Versatile and adaptable, this recipe accommodates various dietary preferences and can be customized with different spices and herbs. Ideal as a breakfast option, a snack, or a side, it pairs well with everything from soups to salads. Easy to prepare, the bread requires minimal effort and baking expertise, making it suitable for both novice and experienced bakers. The use of kefir and milk contributes to a moist texture while maintaining the bread's structural integrity. Let’s dive into this enriching baking experience that promises to delight your taste buds and provide a healthy addition to your meals.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups (250 ml each) of mixed grain flakes (oats, barley, wheat, rye, or multi-grain)
• 2 handfuls of seeds
• 1 medium-sized carrot
• 50 g of cheese
• A bunch of spring onions (or alternatively dill or parsley)

Spices and Sauces:

• Spices of choice

Liquids:

• 200 ml of milk
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 100 ml of kefir

Preparation Time

Total: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Blend the Grain Flakes: Start by blending the grain flakes into flour. You can choose to blend some completely and leave others whole according to your preference.

2. Prepare the Seeds: Toast the seeds lightly in a pan to enhance their flavor and texture.

3. Grate the Carrot: Using a fine grater, shred the carrot finely to ensure it mixes well into the dough.

4. Chop the Onions or Herbs: Finely chop the spring onions, or if you prefer, dill or parsley.

5. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grain flour with the spices, chopped onions or herbs, toasted seeds, grated carrot, and cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

6. Prepare the Liquid Mix: In a separate bowl, mix the kefir with baking soda until well combined. Allow this mixture to rest for a few minutes as it will become slightly foamy.

7. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the kefir mixture and milk into the dry ingredients. Stir until you achieve a thick but sticky dough. It's essential to let this dough sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to hydrate.

8. Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Be gentle to maintain its airy texture.

9. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).

10. Bake the Bread: Place the shaped dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes or until it’s golden brown and firm to touch.

11. Cool the Bread: Once baked, cover the bread with a cloth and let it cool on a wire rack. This will help in setting the crust while keeping the interior moist.

12. Enjoy: Slice the bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own or with your favorite spreads.

Tips

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin for an extra kick.
• Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like gouda or feta for varied flavors.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place wrapped in a clean cloth to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 180 per slice
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 8g
• Carbs: 24g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute grains with gluten-free oats and buckwheat flakes.
• Vegan: Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives to make it vegan-friendly.
• Nuts Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with avocado and tomato slices for a refreshing bite.
• Pair with a hearty vegetable soup or stew.
• Top with scrambled eggs and herbs for a flavorful breakfast.

Best Places

• Le Pain Quotidien - Offers a cozy atmosphere with a variety of healthy bread options to try. Location: 81 Boulevard Beaumarchais, Paris, France.
• The Wild Flour Café - Known for its unique bread and excellent brunch options. Location: 1259 Eighth Avenue, Caloocan, Philippines.
• Tartine Bakery - A must-visit for bread enthusiasts, with exceptional quality and flavor. Location: 600 Guerrero Street, San Francisco, USA.
• Baker&Baker - Serves freshly baked artisanal bread in an urban setting. Location: 5 Horatio Street, New York City, USA.
• Borough Market - Visit for an array of independent bakeries with diverse offerings. Location: 8 Southwark Street, London, UK.
• Utopia Café - Combines great coffee with healthy bread and pastry options. Location: 233 High Street, Belfast, Ireland.
• BrotZeit - Offers a unique twist on traditional German bread, with health-conscious options. Location: 17 Auf der Freiheit, Wiesbaden, Germany.
• Bread & Butter Kitchen - Health-focused café offering delightful bread alongside innovative dishes. Location: 3030 Washtenaw Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
• Bäckermeisterei Bäckerei - Known for its wide array of organic bread and pastries. Location: 29 Fleischmarkt, Vienna, Austria.
• Panetteria Vergerio - Delivers traditional Italian breads with a healthy, modern twist. Location: Via Fratelli Bronzetti 11, Milan, Italy.