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Early American Cottage Loaf

Pioneers blended grains available to produce breads with interesting texture. These wholesome, unusual shaped loaves were baked in cast iron pots in the cottage fireplace.
Early American Cottage Loaf
Yield 1 loaf

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups bread flour, divided
  • 1 (0.25oz) package (7g) or 2 1/4 teaspoons Red Star Active Dry Yeast
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 cup oat or wheat bran
  • 2 tablespoons wheat germ
  • 2 tablespoons corn meal
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (120-130°F)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons oil

Instructions

  • In stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, add 1 cup bread flour, yeast, whole wheat flour, oats, salt, wheat germ, wheat bran and cornmeal; mix well. Add warm water, honey and oil to flour mixture. Blend on low speed for 30 seconds; beat on medium speed for 3 minutes.
  • Switch to dough hook attachment. Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a firm dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 to 7 minutes.
    (NOTE: For hand mixing: following above steps, mix ingredients in large mixing bowl using a wooden spoon or dough whisk. Knead on floured surface until smooth and elastic.)
  • Place dough in lightly oiled bowl and turn to grease top. Cover; let rise until indentation remains after poking dough with finger down to second knuckle, about 1 hour.
  • Prepare baking dish: Grease a 1 1/2-quart casserole or soufflé dish; set aside
  • Turn dough onto lightly floured surface; punch down to remove air bubbles. Cut off 1/4 of dough. Cover, let dough relax for 10 minutes. Shape both pieces into smooth, round balls. Place larger ball in prepared dish. With fist, make deep indentation in center. Place smaller ball in well. Stick floured finger down through center of both balls to bottom of dish to help secure both balls together. Cover; let rise until indentation remains after lightly touching dough.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F.
  • Just before baking, stick finger into hole again. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from dish; cool on rack.

Notes

Get Bread Machine Method here.
Photo by Yesterfood.