Ingredients:
- 6 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 cups warm water (around 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
- 1 ½ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated. - Add Ingredients
Once the yeast is foamy, add the vinegar, vegetable oil, and salt. Gradually add 3 cups of flour, mixing until the dough starts coming together. - Knead the Dough
Gradually add the remaining flour, 1 cup at a time, while kneading the dough. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. - First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, until doubled in size. - Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it in half and shape it into loaves. Place each loaf in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. - Second Rise
Cover the loaves and let them rise again in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes, or until they’ve risen about 1 inch above the pan edge. - Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. - Cool and Enjoy
Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
This recipe makes two delicious loaves with a soft crumb and a nice crust. Enjoy!