How to Make Bread Without Yeast

1. Sourdough Bread:

Sourdough bread relies on naturally occurring bacteria and yeast present in the sourdough starter to leaven the dough.

Ingredients:

- All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups

- Water: 1 1/2 cups + 2 tablespoons

- Salt: 1 3/4 teaspoons

- Sourdough Starter: 1/2 cup (active)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sourdough Starter: If you don't have an active sourdough starter, you'll need to create one. This involves mixing flour and water and allowing it to naturally ferment for several days.

2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, water, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a shaggy dough.

3. Incorporate the Sourdough Starter: Add the active sourdough starter to the dough and mix until thoroughly incorporated.

4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 6-8 hours or until doubled in size.

6. Shape and Second Rise: Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf or desired shape. Place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for another 2-3 hours until doubled in size.

7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

8. Bake the Bread: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 210°F (100°C).

9. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and enjoying your freshly baked sourdough bread.

2. Baking Soda and Acid:

Baking soda, when combined with an acidic ingredient like buttermilk, yogurt, or lemon juice, can create a carbon dioxide reaction that acts as a leavening agent.

Ingredients:

- All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups

- Baking Soda: 1 1/2 teaspoons

- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons

- Buttermilk: 1 1/2 cups

- Optional: 3 tablespoons of softened butter or oil, for a richer flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

3. Add the Buttermilk: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can result in a dense texture.

4. Optional Addition: If using butter or oil for a richer flavor, add it at this stage and mix until combined.

5. Pour into a Loaf Pan: Pour the batter into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.

6. Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing and enjoying.

Remember, breads made without yeast tend to be denser than traditional yeast breads, but they still offer delicious flavors and textures.