Archive for Downsizer For an ethical approach to consumption
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eco-tricot
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Bread machines and spelt flourI've been using a Panasonic bread machine for about 9 years now without complaint, but I think it's just met its nemesis - spelt flour.
It's the third time I've attempted a loaf with spelt and each time it's turned out like a brick. It wasn't even 100% spelt either but mixed with white flour.
Anybody else tried spelt flour with any success? Is it worth trying to make pastry with?
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alice
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I've used it to make a 'roman army loaf'. The Doves Farm people published the recipe in an article - years ago, but I still have it.
Its 100% spelt, a lot of liquid and you don't knead it but mix it in a big bowl with a wooden spoon. Makes a big flattish sort of cob - but it is lovely, will slice quite thinly, makes smashing sandwiches.
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gil
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Spelt flour makes wonderful bread, but by hand, NOT in a breadmaker. Use more liquid than for normal flour.
I'll go and get the recipe I use, and post it.
I also use it in bread that is half-wholemeal, half-spelt (to make it go further).
And about 1oz in a crumble topping is good too.
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eco-tricot
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| alice wrote: | I've used it to make a 'roman army loaf'. The Doves Farm people published the recipe in an article - years ago, but I still have it.
Its 100% spelt, a lot of liquid and you don't knead it but mix it in a big bowl with a wooden spoon. Makes a big flattish sort of cob - but it is lovely, will slice quite thinly, makes smashing sandwiches. |
Is that like a Doris Grant loaf?
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gil
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Spelt bread (from Anne Sheasby's 'The Big Book of Bread'
(you can halve quantities and make just one loaf)
Makes 2 x 2lb loaves (sort of)
1.75lb spelt flour
2 tsps salt
1 sachet fast action dried yeast
2 tbsps olive oil
1 tsp honey / sugar
1 pint warm water
1. Grease tins
2. Mix flour, salt and yeast in large bowl, make well in centre, add honey/sugar, oil and water, and mix vigourously using hands for 5-10 mins. Dough still sticky.
3. Put dough into loaf tins (half full); put in warm place to rise for about 1hr till about risen to top of tin
4. Having pre-heated oven to 200C, bake for 40-50 mins or till lightly browned and hollow-sounding
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alice
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Noooo...
I've often made old Doris's loaf and while its quite acceptable there are lots of nicer wholemeal recipes out there - with a lot less resemblance to a housebrick 
The premise of the roman army loaf was that it could have been the bread that the Romans brought to Britain. Spelt is an ancient strain of wheat, the recipe includes honey and olive oil and fresh yeast. Can't remember if it has one rising or two but I can hunt out the recipe if you like.
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sally_in_wales
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the Roman army bread recipe is still on the side of the spelt packet, or was last time I bought a bag. its a lovely bread, like it lots.
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bakerma
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Bread by SpeltGreetings to you Devon, I use Spelt flour all the time in my baking, frying, whatever I need. I did try my bread machine with Spelt a few times. And yes, I did have horrors for bread. Garbage actually. I read about it and have had better success with it. I am contemplating writing articles on the use of Spelt with a bread machine but only if the responsive interest is relatively moderate. I would like to do a webpage on the subject. Maybe we can brainstorm together. It is just a thought. Your problem lies in the amount of liquid you add. Remember: Spelt is less glutenous than regular wheat flour. More liquid is needed. Hope that helps. Also, go to VitaSpelt.com for more info.
Viola
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Markb
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I've been using a Panasonic breadmaker for a couple of years. I make a basic white loaf but include 25% wholegrain spelt- it comes out fine (not quite as light but I prefer it that way), and has a lovely off-white colour.
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