Graham Bread (an Old Recipe) Recipe

Graham Bread Recipe:

History and Fun Facts:
Graham bread is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed for centuries. It was named after its creator, Reverend Sylvester Graham, who was a prominent figure in the 19th-century health reform movement. Reverend Graham believed in the importance of a healthy diet and the consumption of whole grains. He developed Graham flour, a coarsely ground wheat flour that retains more of the wheat's bran and germ, which contains essential nutrients. Graham bread quickly gained popularity as a nutritious and tasty alternative to traditional white bread.

One interesting fact about Graham bread is that it was initially made with only graham flour, water, and salt. However, over time, variations of the recipe arose, and ingredients like molasses, butter, milk, and soda were added to enhance the flavor and texture.

Now, let's dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delightful bread!

Ingredients:
- 2 cups sour milk
- 2 cups sweet milk or water
- 1 teaspoon soda (Salaratus)
- Graham flour
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 tablespoonful melted butter
- Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bread loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour milk and sweet milk or water.
- Fun Fact: Sour milk adds a tangy flavor to the bread and helps with the fermentation process, while sweet milk or water provides moisture.
3. Dissolve the soda (Salaratus) in a small amount of warm water and add it to the milk mixture.
- Fun Fact: Salaratus, a type of baking soda, was commonly used in older recipes as a leavening agent.
4. Begin adding graham flour gradually to the liquid mixture, stirring continuously.
- Fun Fact: Graham flour is made by grinding the entire wheat grain, including the bran and germ, resulting in a coarse texture and a nutty flavor.
5. Add the molasses to the mixture. Molasses not only provides sweetness but also contributes to the dark color of the bread.
6. Pour in the melted butter and add a pinch of salt for flavor.
7. Continue adding graham flour until the batter becomes stiff, similar to the consistency of an ordinary molasses cake.
- Fun Fact: The amount of graham flour required may vary depending on the consistency of the liquid ingredients. It's best to add the flour gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
8. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, distributing it evenly.
9. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the bread comes out clean.
10. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
11. Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Graham bread is delicious on its own, or it can be enjoyed with various toppings such as butter, honey, or even as a base for sandwiches. Its unique flavor and healthy characteristics make it a versatile bread suitable for any time of the day.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy making and consuming Graham bread, you might also be interested in exploring other recipes that focus on the use of whole grains and nutritious ingredients. Some similar dishes you might want to try include:

1. Whole Wheat Bread: This bread is made using 100% whole wheat flour, creating a hearty and nutritious loaf that can be enjoyed for sandwiches or toasted with your favorite spreads.

2. Oatmeal Bread: Oatmeal bread combines the goodness of oats with traditional bread ingredients, resulting in a slightly sweet and moist loaf with a wonderful texture.

3. Rye Bread: Rye bread is a popular choice for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet. It has a distinct flavor and pairs well with various toppings, such as smoked salmon or cream cheese.

4. Multigrain Bread: As the name suggests, multigrain bread is made with a combination of different grains, such as wheat, oats, barley, and flaxseed. It offers a variety of flavors and textures, making it a wholesome and delicious choice.

By exploring these recipes, you can expand your baking repertoire and discover new ways to incorporate healthier ingredients into your diet. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the goodness of homemade bread!