This Soft and Fluffy Kefir Bread is a delicious oven-free recipe that’s easy to prepare. With a tender texture and slight tanginess from the kefir, this bread is versatile and perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or as a side dish. The stovetop cooking method ensures a golden crust and soft interior without the need for an oven.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30-32 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 57 minutes
Ingredients:
- 500 g plain flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 6 g dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 350 ml kefir
- 30 ml vegetable oil (plus extra for greasing)
- Butter (for greasing the pan)
- Additional flour (for dusting)
Directions:
Prepare the Dough:
- Sift 500 g of plain flour into a large mixing bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of sugar, 6 g of dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in 350 ml of kefir.
- Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the dough is smooth.
- Add 30 ml of vegetable oil and knead the dough until it reaches a medium-soft consistency.
First Rise:
6. Grease a large bowl with vegetable oil.
7. Place the dough in the bowl, cover with food-grade film, and then with a towel.
8. Set aside in a warm place for 40 minutes to rise.
Shape the Dough:
9. Once the dough has risen, grease the table with a little oil.
10. Knead the dough gently and form it into a ball.
11. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts.
12. Dust a cutting board with flour and roll each piece into a ball.
13. Cover with a towel and let rest for 20 minutes.
Roll and Shape:
14. Grease a pan with butter.
15. Sprinkle the table with flour.
16. Roll out each ball of dough to the desired size.
17. Roll up the dough and secure the edges to form a loaf.
18. Place each loaf in the greased pan.
19. Cover with a towel and let rest for another 20 minutes.
Cook the Bread:
20. After 20 minutes, cover the pan and bake the bread over medium heat for 20 minutes.
21. After 20 minutes, cover the bread with baking paper and turn over using a plate of appropriate size.
22. Cover with a lid and bake for another 10-12 minutes over medium heat.
Cool and Serve:
23. Once the bread is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
24. Enjoy your delicious, homemade oven-free bread!
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect for sandwiches or toast with butter and jam.
- Serve alongside soups, stews, or salads.
- Use as a base for bruschetta or garlic bread.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the kefir is at room temperature for better yeast activation.
- Use a non-stick or cast-iron pan for even cooking.
- For a sweeter version, add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or sugar to the dough.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Kefir: A good source of probiotics, supporting gut health.
- Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
- Yeast: Adds B vitamins and enhances flavor.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Nut-free.
- Contains gluten (use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option).
Nutritional Facts (Per Loaf):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat before serving.
- Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry out the bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- No oven is required, making it convenient for any kitchen setup.
- Soft and fluffy texture with a subtle tang from the kefir.
- Versatile bread that pairs well with sweet or savory toppings.
- Easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
Conclusion:
This Soft and Fluffy Kefir Bread is an easy, delicious way to enjoy homemade bread without an oven. Its light texture and rich flavor make it ideal for any meal or snack. With minimal effort and maximum satisfaction, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use yogurt instead of kefir?
Yes, thin yogurt with water to match kefir’s consistency. - Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, substitute an equal amount of instant yeast and skip the activation step. - Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Add dried rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder for extra flavor. - What’s the best way to ensure even cooking?
Use a heavy-bottomed pan and cook on medium heat. - Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for bread. - What type of oil works best?
Any neutral oil, like vegetable or sunflower oil, works well. - How do I know if the dough has risen enough?
It should double in size and feel light and airy when poked. - Can I bake this bread in the oven?
Yes, bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes instead of stovetop cooking. - Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the bread will be denser. Use half whole wheat and half plain flour for balance. - How can I keep the bread soft after cooking?
Wrap it in a clean towel immediately after cooking to retain moisture.