I have no doubt that Elise Blaha was the inspiration behind this item on my 30 before 30 list:
27. Bake a loaf of bread.
I enjoy baking, although I don't do it that often, but had never attempted bread. No bread-maker either - this was all to be made by hand.
Assigned to bring bread to our family Christmas lunch, it provided the perfect motivation to tick this task off. I searched online for a recipe, bought some yeast and, first thing Christmas Eve morning, I was began mixing. Then kneading. Then kneading, Then kneading some more.
There was some nervous waiting, just hoping it would rise as it should. My biggest problem though, was remembering how to braid - haven't done that in years and dough isn't the best with which to practise!
As I took it out of the oven I was feeling fairly confident - it sure seemed like bread! - but had to wait before I could slice into it and make sure. I checked on the loaf quite a few times that evening, giving it a tap with my knuckles. Checking for what, I'm not really sure. :)
Cutting into it the next day I was definitely nervous - Christmas Day lunch is a big debut for a novice bread-maker! - but it was all good. Looked, tasted and smelt like bread. A definite thumbs up.
I did hedge my bets though - as the loaf of bread sat cooling on the rack I decided to attempt baking some garlic rolls as well.
While they certainly looked impressive - and I did get some nice compliments - really, they were a bit tough. More a bake and eat right away kind of recipe. Oh well, live and learn.
Overall, I'm calling this baking bread a success. Definitely something I'd like to try again. One day.
