Bread is a staple in many households, but for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, finding a good gluten-free bread can be a challenge. Enter gluten-free peasant bread—a rustic, hearty loaf that’s easy to make and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter. This recipe is designed to be simple, requiring minimal ingredients and no complicated techniques. Whether you're new to gluten-free baking or a seasoned pro, this peasant bread will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Peasant bread is traditionally a simple, no-fuss bread made with basic ingredients. It’s known for its rustic texture and hearty flavor. By adapting this recipe to be gluten-free, we retain the essence of peasant bread while making it accessible to those who need to avoid gluten. This bread is perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome, homemade loaf that’s free from additives and preservatives.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this gluten-free peasant bread:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free all-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Xanthan gum (if not included in flour) | 1 tsp |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ tsp |
| Warm water (110°F) | 1 ½ cups |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Honey or sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tsp |
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, honey (or sugar), and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (if needed), and salt. Ensure the ingredients are well combined to avoid any lumps in the dough.
Add the activated yeast mixture, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until a sticky dough forms. Gluten-free dough will be softer and stickier than traditional bread dough, so don’t be alarmed.
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to help the dough rise.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round baking dish or a loaf pan with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Use wet hands to shape the dough into a round or oval loaf. Smooth the top with a spatula or your hands.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step is crucial to ensure the bread sets properly.
Yes, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours like almond flour or oat flour, but the texture and rise may vary. A gluten-free all-purpose flour blend is recommended for the best results.
Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Gluten-free bread can sometimes be denser than traditional bread. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active, and let the dough rise fully before baking. Overmixing the dough can also lead to a denser texture.
Yes! Simply replace the honey with maple syrup or another vegan sweetener, and ensure your gluten-free flour blend is vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free peasant bread is a wonderful addition to any kitchen, offering a simple and delicious way to enjoy homemade bread without gluten. With its rustic texture and versatile flavor, this loaf is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to your favorite soups and stews. By following this easy recipe, you can create a wholesome, gluten-free bread that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!
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