Basic Spelt Bread for Oven or Bread Machine

This basic recipe is from Arrowhead Mills. The taste by itself is wonderful and works well when paired with salty or sweet foods/spreads. I've started to add different combinations or herbs, cheeses, and ground chia seeds into the mix as well. It's a great recipe to experiment with. I've found that the nutrient-rich bread itself is rather filling, so the loaf lasts somewhat longer than expected.

• Ready In: 1 hr 45 mins
• Serves: 8-10
• Yields: 1 loaf

Ingredients

• 1 (1/4ounce) package active dry yeast
• 1  cup warm water
• 2  tablespoons honey
• 2  tablespoons  vegetable oil
• 1  teaspoon sea salt
• 3 1⁄2 cups  spelt flour (divided)

• OPTIONAL

•  additional herbs

Directions

1. OVEN INSTRUCTIONS: Dissolve yeast in honey with vegetable oil and water.
2. Add salt and 1 1/2 cups of spelt flour. Beat well for 3-4 minutes.
3. Cover with damp cloth and let rest in a warm place for approximately 30 minutes or until double in size.
4. Add remaining flour, turning onto floured board and knead until smooth, adding flour if necessary.
5. OPTIONAL: Add desired additional ingredients to taste. This is where I tend to add small amounts of herbs (such as basil and/or rosemary), chia seeds (usually ground), and/or grated parmesan/asiago cheese.
6. Place in oiled loaf pan and cover with damp cloth. Let rise in warm place until double in size (approximately 30 minutes).
7. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. BREAD MACHINE INSTRUCTIONS: Add ingredients to machine according to manufacturer's instructions.
9. Bake on shortest cycle (NOT quick bread cycle).
10. If loaf falls and craters during baking cylce, decrease water slightly next time.