Introduction
Yeast and Rice Bread is a delightful bread recipe that combines the classic yeast-risen texture with the subtle flavor and moistness of cooked rice. This bread is soft, slightly chewy, and has a unique flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover rice or simply want to try something new, this bread is sure to impress with its versatility and taste.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown, slightly cooled)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup milk, warmed
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup additional flour (for kneading, as needed)
Preparation Tips
- Cooked Rice Texture: Make sure the cooked rice is soft and moist, as it will blend better into the dough and help keep the bread tender.
- Activate the Yeast: Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. Hot water can kill the yeast, while cold water may not activate it.
- Knead Well: Kneading the dough develops gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness.
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is activated.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, warm milk, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix well.
- Add the activated yeast mixture to the bowl, followed by the beaten egg. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes, adding a little more flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
- Shape the dough into a ball.
Step 4: First Rise
- Place the dough ball into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Bread
- After the first rise, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles.
- Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into smaller rolls, depending on your preference.
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again in a warm place for 30-40 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes for a loaf, or 15-20 minutes for rolls, until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Description
This Yeast and Rice Bread is soft, flavorful, and slightly sweet with a moist crumb. The cooked rice adds a unique texture, while the yeast gives the bread a lovely rise and fluffy interior. It’s versatile enough to pair with soups, spreads, or even toasted with butter and jam for breakfast.
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 slices)
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 8%
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover rice works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s not too dry. If it’s dry, you can sprinkle it with a bit of water and microwave it briefly to soften it.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can substitute up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Using all whole wheat flour may result in a denser bread.
3. Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
Absolutely! You can mix in herbs, cheese, or seeds for extra flavor. Chopped green onions or minced garlic also make delicious additions.
4. How should I store this bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, you’ll need to use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the yeast and other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture may differ slightly, but it should still be delicious!
Recommendations
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this bread with butter, jam, or a savory spread like hummus. It also makes a great base for sandwiches.
- Toast It: This bread is excellent when lightly toasted and topped with avocado or cream cheese.
- Make Rolls: Instead of shaping the dough into a loaf, divide it into smaller portions to make individual rolls. These are perfect for serving alongside soups or salads.
- Double the Recipe: This bread freezes well, so consider making two loaves at once and freezing one for later.
Conclusion
This Yeast and Rice Bread recipe is a creative way to use simple ingredients to make a unique and delicious homemade bread. With its soft texture, subtle sweetness, and versatile flavor, it’s a recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to time and again. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of yeast and rice in every bite!