Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)
Extra flour for dusting
PREPARATION:
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water.
3. Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf or divide it into smaller portions for individual rolls.
6. Preheat the Pan
Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Grease the pan lightly with olive oil.
7. Cook the Bread
Place the dough in the preheated pan. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil to create an oven-like environment.
Cook for about 10-12 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 8-10 minutes on the other side. The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade bread warm with your favorite toppings!
Benefits of Stovetop Bread
Convenient: No need for an oven; perfect for small kitchens or hot weather.
Quick: This method is faster than traditional baking, with less preheating and quicker cooking times.
Delicious: Fresh, homemade bread with a crispy crust and soft interior.
Tips for Best Results
Low and Slow: Cook on medium-low heat to ensure the bread cooks through without burning the crust.
Covered Cooking: Covering the pan helps trap heat and moisture, mimicking the effect of an oven.
Experiment: Try adding herbs, seeds, or whole grains to the dough for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Making bread in a pan is a fantastic alternative to traditional oven baking. This method produces delicious, homemade white bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of fresh, warm bread made right on your stovetop.