Bread is a staple in many households around the world, and for good reason. It’s versatile, easy to make, and can complement a wide range of dishes. However, for those who prefer to avoid eggs due to dietary preferences, allergies, or ethical reasons, making eggless bread is a great alternative. The good news is that eggless bread is just as delicious and beneficial for health as its traditional counterpart.
Here, we present an eggless bread recipe inspired by the culinary genius of Tarla Dalal, an iconic Indian chef who made cooking easy and accessible for everyone. This bread is not only egg-free but also nutritious and light, perfect for those looking for healthier options without compromising on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (atta)
- 2 tsp instant dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or any vegetable oil)
- ¾ tsp salt
- 1 ¼ cups lukewarm water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, for brushing)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the lukewarm water with sugar and sprinkle the instant dry yeast over the top. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix these ingredients well.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients, along with the olive oil. Stir everything together using a spoon or your hands until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky, but avoid adding too much as it will make the bread dense.
- First Proofing: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until the dough has doubled in size. This is the first proofing step.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Gently shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions if you prefer individual bread rolls.
- Second Proofing: Place the shaped dough onto a greased baking tray or in a bread loaf pan. Cover it with a cloth and let it rise again for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). If you like, you can brush the top of the loaf with a little milk for a golden finish. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Slice it once it has cooled down slightly, and serve it fresh.
Why Choose Eggless Bread?
- Health Benefits:
- No Cholesterol: Without eggs, eggless bread has no cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy option for those watching their cholesterol levels.
- Lower in Calories: By skipping eggs, the calorie content is reduced, helping those who are mindful of their calorie intake.
- Better Digestion: Whole wheat flour adds fiber to the bread, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
- Suitable for Vegan and Dairy-Free Diets: This bread recipe can easily be made vegan by using plant-based oils and excluding dairy milk. It’s also suitable for those with egg allergies or intolerances.
- Easy to Make at Home: With common ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this bread recipe is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any advanced baking skills. Plus, it’s made without preservatives or artificial additives, making it a healthier choice for your family.
- Great for Breakfast or Snacks: Serve it with butter, jam, peanut butter, or even as a base for sandwiches. This eggless bread can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Conclusion:
This eggless bread recipe is a winner for anyone looking for a healthy, egg-free option to add to their kitchen repertoire. Inspired by the simplicity and accessibility of Tarla Dalal’s recipes, this bread is not only delicious but also beneficial for your health. By opting for this homemade version, you’re making a conscious choice to enjoy a nutritious and wholesome product. Whether you enjoy it as toast, in sandwiches, or simply with a bit of butter, this bread will surely satisfy your taste buds while keeping your health in check.
