This recipe focuses on using alternative flours and ingredients known for their heart-healthy benefits and suitability for weight management. It's gluten-free, GMO-free, uses natural sweeteners, and is designed to be low in carbohydrates and fat.
Cuisine Type: International (Adaptable)
Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free, GMO-Free, Natural Sugar, Low-Carb, Low-Fat
Yields: 1 loaf (approximately 12 slices)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 60-90 minutes (or longer, depending on temperature)
Bake Time: 45-55 minutes
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
* 1 ½ cups Almond Flour (blanched, finely ground)
* ½ cup Coconut Flour
* ¼ cup Flaxseed Meal (ground flaxseed)
* 2 tablespoons Psyllium Husk Powder
* 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (aluminum-free)
* ½ teaspoon Baking Soda
* ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
* 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional, for added flavor and antioxidant benefits)
Wet Ingredients:
* 4 large Eggs, lightly beaten
* ¼ cup Unsweetened Applesauce (for moisture and natural sweetness)
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin, heart-healthy fat)
* 1 tablespoon Raw Honey or Maple Syrup (natural sweetener, adjust to taste)
* 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (helps activate baking soda and adds tang)
* ½ cup Unsweetened Almond Milk (or other non-dairy milk)
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Optional Add-Ins (for added flavor and texture):
* ¼ cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (heart-healthy nuts)
* ¼ cup Dried Cranberries (unsweetened)
* 1 tablespoon Chia Seeds (for added fiber and omega-3s)
Equipment:
* Large Mixing Bowl
* Whisk
* Loaf Pan (8.5 x 4.5 inches), greased and lined with parchment paper
* Measuring Cups and Spoons
* Wire Rack
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
* In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, flaxseed meal, psyllium husk powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Ensure all ingredients are well combined and there are no clumps.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
* In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar, almond milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
* Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Add Optional Ingredients (if using):
* Gently fold in the chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or chia seeds (if using) into the dough until evenly distributed.
5. Let the Dough Rest:
* Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the psyllium husk to absorb moisture and bind the dough together. The dough will thicken considerably.
6. Transfer to Loaf Pan:
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Transfer the dough to the prepared loaf pan. Use a wet spatula or your hands to evenly spread the dough and smooth the top.
7. Score the Top (Optional):
* Using a sharp knife, score a shallow line down the center of the loaf. This helps the bread rise evenly and prevents cracking.
8. Bake the Bread:
* Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown on top.
9. Cool the Bread:
* Remove the loaf pan from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
* After 10 minutes, carefully lift the bread out of the pan using the parchment paper and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Slice and Serve:
* Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This will prevent it from crumbling. Use a serrated knife to slice the bread.
Cooking Times:
* Rise Time: 60-90 minutes (or longer, depending on temperature)
* Bake Time: 45-55 minutes
Serving Suggestions:
* Toast with Avocado and Everything Bagel Seasoning: A classic and healthy breakfast or snack.
* Sandwiches with Lean Protein and Vegetables: Use the bread for sandwiches with lean turkey, chicken, or tofu, along with plenty of vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.
* Spread with Nut Butter and Sliced Banana: A satisfying and nutritious snack or breakfast.
* Served alongside Soup or Salad: A hearty addition to a light meal.
* Make Croutons: Cube the bread and bake until crispy for homemade croutons.
Tips and Variations:
* Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your preference. You can also use other natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract.
* Add Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for added flavor.
* Nut-Free Option: Replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour.
* Increase Fiber: Add 1-2 tablespoons of ground chia seeds or hemp seeds to the dough.
* Storage: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
* Experiment with Flour Combinations: While this recipe works well with the specified flours, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours like oat flour (if not strictly gluten-free) or sorghum flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid content accordingly.
Nutritional Information (approximate, per slice):
* Calories: 150-180
* Carbohydrates: 8-10g
* Fiber: 4-6g
* Protein: 6-8g
* Fat: 10-12g
Enjoy this delicious and healthy homemade bread!
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