There’s something truly special about homemade bread. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is comforting, and the sense of accomplishment after slicing into a loaf that you made from scratch is incredibly rewarding.
Durum wheat bread recipe, in particular, is one of those timeless classics that feels rustic yet refined. It is slightly different from traditional wheat bread, as it uses durum wheat flour, which is most commonly associated with pasta-making.
However, this type of wheat imparts a golden color, a firm yet tender crumb, and a slightly nutty flavor that sets it apart from other breads.
Durum wheat is prized for its higher protein content, which contributes to the bread’s firm texture. This bread is perfect for slicing and serving with soups, stews, or simply slathering with butter and enjoying fresh.
You’ll love the golden crust and dense interior of this loaf, which holds up beautifully to toasting, sandwiches, or dipping into olive oil.
In this recipe, I’ll guide you through each step, from mixing the dough to baking the perfect golden loaf. Let’s embark on this delicious journey of bread-making with durum wheat!
How To Prepare Durum Wheat Bread Recipe?
Recipe oveview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours
Course: Bread
Calories: 180 kcal
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Servings: 1 large loaf (about 12 slices)
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional, for ease of kneading)
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Loaf pan (optional, for shaping)
- Baking sheet (if not using a loaf pan)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 3 cups durum wheat flour (semolina)
- 1 cup white bread flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for brushing the crust)
How To Make c
1. Prepare the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar or honey in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your yeast is activated and will help the bread rise properly.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the durum wheat flour, white bread flour, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients, and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix the ingredients together using a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough
If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10-12 minutes. The dough should be soft, slightly tacky, and smooth.
5. First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning the dough to coat it in oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. If you prefer a free-form loaf, shape it into a round boule or oval shape. For a more uniform loaf, place the dough in a greased loaf pan.
7. Second Rise
Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up and increases in size.
8. Preheat the Oven
While the dough is undergoing its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you want a crispier crust, you can place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam.
9. Bake the Bread
Once the dough has completed its second rise, bake it in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. The bread should have a golden brown crust, and when tapped on the bottom, it should sound hollow. If using a loaf pan, the internal temperature should reach about 200°F (93°C).
10. Cool the Bread
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. If you prefer a softer crust, you can brush the top of the loaf with melted butter while it’s still warm.
Serving Suggestions
Durum wheat bread recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:
Sandwiches: Use it for sandwiches filled with your favorite meats, cheeses, and veggies.
Toast: Enjoy a slice toasted with avocado and a sprinkle of salt.
Bread and Olive Oil: Serve it as an appetizer with high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Unique variations
1. Herb and Garlic Durum Wheat Bread
Add a savory flair to your bread by incorporating fresh herbs and garlic. Simply mix in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the dough before the first rise. This variation is perfect for serving with soups, pasta, or as a side for dinner.
2. Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Durum Wheat Bread
For a Mediterranean-inspired loaf, fold in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and ¼ cup of sliced black or green olives after the first knead. The tangy tomatoes and salty olives create a flavorful bread that pairs well with salads or as the base for a sandwich.
3. Seeded Durum Wheat Bread
Boost the texture and nutrition of your bread by adding seeds. Before kneading, stir in 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or a mixture of all three. You can also sprinkle extra seeds on top before baking for a crunchy crust. This bread is hearty and nutritious, making it great for breakfast toast or snacks.
4. Honey and Oat Durum Wheat Bread
If you prefer a slightly sweeter loaf, add 2 tablespoons of honey and ¼ cup of rolled oats to the dough before the first rise. The oats add texture, and the honey gives a subtle sweetness that balances the durum wheat’s nuttiness. This variation is excellent for breakfast, especially with butter and jam.
5. Cheese and Jalapeño Durum Wheat Bread
For a spicy, cheesy twist, mix in ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1-2 diced jalapeños before shaping the loaf. The combination of the creamy cheese and spicy jalapeño makes this bread perfect for serving alongside chili, soups, or for making grilled cheese sandwiches.
Health Benefits
Durum wheat bread recipe offers several health benefits due to its higher protein and fiber content compared to regular wheat bread.
The durum wheat flour used in this bread is rich in essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, which support energy production and overall health. The fiber in durum wheat aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Additionally, its protein content contributes to muscle health and can keep you feeling full longer, making this bread a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Making durum wheat bread recipe at home is an incredibly satisfying experience. The process, from kneading the dough to the final product, is a journey that yields more than just a loaf of bread.
It’s a connection to traditional bread-making methods, and the result is a delicious, versatile loaf that you can be proud of.
The golden color and slightly nutty flavor of the durum wheat make this bread stand out among other homemade loaves.
The firm yet tender crumb holds up well to any toppings, and the crust has a satisfying bite that’s just crispy enough. Plus, knowing you made it from scratch makes it taste even better!
I hope you give this durum wheat bread recipe a try. Once you experience the joy of homemade bread, you might find yourself baking a fresh loaf every week!