Recipe of the day: Delicious farm style loaf

Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s a good old-fashioned farm-style loaf.

With a golden, crusty exterior and a soft, fluffy centre, this homemade bread is perfect for thick slices slathered in butter, topped with cheese or enjoyed with Marmite.

Made with just a handful of everyday ingredients, including a touch of honey, this easy recipe, courtesy of Deli Benmore, brings the comforting taste of traditional farmhouse baking to your table.

Ingredients

• 500g strong bread flour
• 10g salt
• 7g fast-action yeast
• 350ml warm water
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the warm water, olive oil, and honey until well combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead for 10-15 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 220°C.
7. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round or oblong loaf.
8. Place the dough on a lightly oiled baking sheet, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes.
9. Using a sharp knife, make a few slashes across the top of the loaf.
10. Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
12. Slice and serve with butter, cheese, or your favourite spread.