Oats Loaf

Description

Description: Oats loaf combines the goodness of oats with the heartiness of whole wheat flour to create a nutritious and delicious bread. Often enriched with honey or molasses for a touch of sweetness and a moist crumb, this loaf is versatile enough to be served with a variety of toppings. It’s ideal for those looking to add more whole grains to their diet without compromising on taste or texture.
Ingredients:
Whole wheat flour
Rolled oats (plus extra for topping)
Warm water or milk
Honey or molasses
Active dry yeast
Salt
Butter or oil
Preparation:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water or milk with honey or molasses and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Add rolled oats, whole wheat flour, salt, and melted butter or oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Loaf:
Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover it and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the rim of the pan.
Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the top of the loaf with a little milk or melted butter and sprinkle extra rolled oats on top for garnish.
Bake:
Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
If the top of the loaf browns too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
Cool and Serve:
Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Oats loaf is best enjoyed fresh and can be served with a variety of toppings, from butter and jam to avocado and smoked salmon. Its hearty texture and rich flavor make it a satisfying choice for any meal.