Rugged Raisin Bread: A Timeless Delight

A Brief History of Raisin Bread

Raisin bread has a storied past, with its origins tracing back to the 1400s in Europe. The first written record of raisin bread dates to 1671. Contrary to popular belief, Henry David Thoreau did not invent raisin bread, although he did mention it in his writings. Various cultures have their own versions of raisin bread, such as the Estonian Kringel, Slovakian Vianocka, and Jewish Challah.

The Federal Regulation of Raisin Bread

In the United States, raisin bread is regulated by the federal government to ensure consumers get their fair share of raisins. According to the Federal standard, raisin bread must contain enough raisins to equal at least half the weight of the flour used. This regulation ensures that raisin lovers are not shortchanged. Interestingly, five types of bread in the U.S. are regulated to protect consumers.

Ingredients and Preparation

For our wholesome raisin bread recipe, we will use whole wheat flour to nourish as well as please the senses. Here are the ingredients and steps to make this delicious bread:

Ingredients

• 2 cups of whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
• 1.5 teaspoons of sea salt
• 1.5 cups of warm water
• 3/4 cup of whole milk
• 1/3 cup of molasses
• 1/3 cup of melted butter
• 1 cup of red or yellow raisins
• 4 cups of bread flour

Preparation

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm water, raisins, melted butter, and molasses to the dry mixture and mix thoroughly.
3. Incorporate Bread Flour: Gradually mix in the bread flour until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for approximately 10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour if necessary.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, roll it to coat with grease, cover with a kitchen cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour.
6. Second Knead: After an hour, knead the dough for another 5 minutes and divide it into two equal loaves.
7. Second Rise: Place each loaf into a greased 9x5 inch bread pan, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the loaves for approximately 40 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

Whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative to white flour, providing more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Raisins add natural sweetness and are rich in iron, potassium, and antioxidants. This combination makes raisin bread not only delicious but also nutritious.

Fun Facts and Stats

• Raisin Consumption: The United States is one of the largest consumers of raisins, with an average American consuming about 1.3 pounds of raisins per year (Source: USDA).
• Bread Consumption: On average, Americans consume 53 pounds of bread per person annually (Source: Statista).
• Health Benefits: Raisins are known to improve digestion, boost iron levels, and keep bones strong due to their high calcium content (Source: Healthline).

Conclusion

Raisin bread is a timeless delight that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its rich history, cultural variations, and nutritional benefits make it a favorite for many. Whether you enjoy it as breakfast toast or a snack, this wholesome raisin bread recipe is sure to please your taste buds and nourish your body. Happy baking!

For more information on the history and benefits of raisins, check out Healthline and USDA.