Kansas Whole Wheat Bread is a cherished recipe, born out of a deep-rooted connection to the land and a passion for baking. Linda Pauls, from Buhler, Kansas, shares her heartwarming story of spending 36 years harvesting wheat and serving as the chief cook for the crew. This wholesome and delightful bread earned recognition at the Celebrate Kansas Wheat Bake-Off, a testament to its deliciousness and nourishing qualities. Now, you too can experience the taste of the heartland with this light-textured, whole wheat bread.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2½ cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup quick-cooking oats
- ¼ cup toasted wheat germ
- 2 packages (¼ ounce each) active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup (8 ounces) 4% cottage cheese
- ½ cup mashed potatoes (without added milk and butter)
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 eggs
- 3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, oats, wheat germ, yeast, and salt.
- In a saucepan, heat water, cottage cheese, potatoes, butter, milk, honey, and molasses to 120°-130° F.
- Add the heated mixture to dry ingredients; beat just until moistened.
- Add eggs; beat until smooth.
- Stir in enough all-purpose flour to form a soft dough.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes).
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Punch the dough down, divide it in half, and shape into two flattened balls.
- Place the balls on two greased baking sheets, cover, and let them rise until doubled (about 45 minutes).
- With a sharp knife, make a shallow X-shaped cut in the top of each loaf.
- Bake at 350° F for 35-40 minutes. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Remove from pans and let cool on wire racks.
YIELD: 2 loaves (12 slices each)
COOKING TIME: 35-40 minutes
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS AND TIPS:
- The key to a soft and tender texture is not to over-knead the dough.
- Ensure that the water temperature is between 120°-130° F for proper yeast activation.
- Grease the bowl and baking sheets adequately to prevent sticking.
- To check if the bread is fully baked, tap the bottom; it should sound hollow.
- Store the bread in an airtight container or bag to maintain freshness.
Kansas Whole Wheat Bread embodies the heart and soul of the Sunflower State, where vast fields of wheat sway in the gentle breeze. Linda Pauls’ dedication to her craft and love for her land shine through in this award-winning recipe. The bread’s blend of whole wheat flour, quick-cooking oats, and toasted wheat germ brings out the natural goodness of the grain, providing a wholesome and nutritious option for bread lovers.
Kansas, known as the Wheat State, contributes significantly to the nation’s wheat production, and this recipe pays homage to the hard work and dedication of farmers who harvest about 400 million bushels of wheat annually. Baking this bread allows you to savor the fruits of their labor and experience the flavors that have sustained generations of Kansans.
The unique combination of ingredients, including cottage cheese and mashed potatoes, imparts moisture and tenderness to the bread, making each slice a delightful treat. The touch of honey and molasses adds a subtle sweetness, balancing the hearty whole wheat taste.
Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice, following the step-by-step instructions will lead you to a pair of beautifully risen loaves, golden brown and inviting. Each slice, with its light texture and wholesome goodness, is perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or simply enjoying with your favorite spreads.
As you indulge in the flavors of Kansas Whole Wheat Bread, take a moment to appreciate the rich agricultural heritage and the dedication of those who work the land to provide nourishment for the nation. This recipe is not just about baking bread; it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and the bond between people and the land they call home.
In conclusion, Kansas Whole Wheat Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a piece of Kansas’ heart and soul. As you bake and savor this bread, you become a part of the story, connecting with a tradition that spans generations. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your kitchen and your heart. Enjoy the taste of Kansas, where wheat fields stretch to the horizon and the love of baking brings people together.
