Challah Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Baking the Perfect Challah
Introduction
Challah is a traditional Jewish bread that is often braided and eaten on special occasions. It is a delicious and versatile bread that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This step-by-step guide will teach you how to make the perfect challah.
Ingredients
For one loaf of challah, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
- 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
Instructions
To make challah, follow these steps:
1. **Proof the yeast.** In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy. 2. **Make the dough.** In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and oil. Add the proofed yeast and beaten egg. Stir until a dough forms. 3. **Knead the dough.** Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. 4. **Let the dough rise.** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. 5. **Punch down the dough.** Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. 6. **Divide the dough.** Divide the dough into three equal pieces. 7. **Roll out the dough.** Roll each piece of dough into a long rope. 8. **Braid the dough.** Braid the three ropes of dough together. 9. **Place the dough on a baking sheet.** Place the braided dough on a greased baking sheet. 10. **Let the dough rise again.** Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size. 11. **Preheat the oven.** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 12. **Bake the challah.** Bake the challah for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. 13. **Let the challah cool.** Let the challah cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.Tips
Here are a few tips for making the perfect challah:
- Use bread flour for a chewier challah.
- If you don't have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for the best results.
- Don't overbake the challah, or it will be dry.
- Enjoy your delicious challah!
