Country Bread with Lard
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tbsp salt
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup lard
– 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
Instructions:
1. **Activate Yeast:** In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
3. **Incorporate Lard:** Add the lard to the dry ingredients and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Add Yeast Mixture:** Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. **Shape the Dough:** Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. **Second Rise:** Cover the loaf and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
8. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. **Cool:** Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time) | Cook Time: 30-40 minutes | Servings: 1 loaf
