Oatmeal Bread from Scratch
The Wholesome Goodness of Oat Bread
Looking for a healthy and more affordable sandwich bread? This easy Oatmeal Bread made from scratch is a simple and easy recipe to make. In the realm of wholesome, nutritious bread options, oat bread shines as a golden standard. With a rich history dating back centuries and a wide array of health benefits, oat bread has earned its place as a beloved and nutritious staple in many households.
The Origins of Oat Bread
The history of oat bread is intertwined with the history of oats themselves, which are one of the oldest cultivated grains on the planet. Oats, scientifically known as Avena sativa, have been grown and consumed for thousands of years. They were first domesticated in the Fertile Crescent, which spans parts of modern-day Iraq, Syria, and Turkey, around 2000 BCE. These hardy, versatile grains quickly spread throughout Europe and became a dietary staple.
Oats have long been appreciated for their ability to thrive in cooler climates and nutrient-rich composition. However, it wasn’t until the Middle Ages that oats gained widespread popularity as a food source, particularly in Northern Europe, where they became a primary cereal crop.
The use of oats in bread-making can be traced back to the Scottish and Irish traditions, where oats were more abundant and affordable than wheat. The earliest oat breads were simple, rustic loaves made with oats, water, and salt. These breads provided sustenance to many generations and were particularly favored by laborers and soldiers due to their energy-rich content.
As centuries passed, oat bread recipes evolved, incorporating other ingredients like yeast, honey, and various grains. Today, oat bread has become a global phenomenon, cherished not only for its historical significance but also for its impressive health benefits.
Health Benefits of Oat Bread
Nutrient-Rich Profile:
Oat bread is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains essential vitamins and minerals, including B-vitamins (like folate and thiamine), magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. Oats are also a fantastic source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucans, which have been associated with various health benefits.
Heart Health:
Oats are celebrated for their heart-healthy properties. They are known to help you reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the bloodstream, thanks to the soluble fiber.
Weight Management:
Oat bread can be an ally in managing your weight. The high fiber content helps promote feelings of fullness and reduces overall calorie intake. Additionally, oats have a low glycemic index, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes.
Digestive Health:
Oat bread’s fiber content is also beneficial for the digestive system. It aids in regular bowel movements, reduces the risk of constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Antioxidants:
Oats are rich in antioxidants, including avenanthramides, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress and may play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Gluten-Free Option:
Oat bread can be an excellent choice for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. While oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, cross-contamination can occur during processing. Look for certified gluten-free oats and oat flour to ensure a safe option.
Making Oat Bread at Home
Now that you’re aware of the incredible health benefits of oat bread, you might be eager to try making your own at home. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Oatmeal Bread from Scratch
Ingredients
- 6 cups bread flour
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp instant yeast
- 1 1/4 cups hot water
- 1 cup oat milk
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 cups rolled oats
Instructions
- Instructions
- Put 4 cups of bread flour into mixing bowl. Add salt and yeast. Make sure salt and yeast are on separate sides of the bowl. Give ingredients a quick stir.
- Stir together water and milk. Make sure water is scalding hot not lukewarm. Add in honey.
- Add liquid ingredients to the flour and stir well with a spatula. Turn on mixer and stir #1 until flour is incorporated with liquids. Turn up mixer to #4 and mix for 5-6 minutes. You will begin to see strands of gluten forming in the batter.
- Add in the oats and remaining 2 cups of bread flour. Stir well with spatula to incorporate into batter. Knead on #4 for 5-10 minutes until the dough begins to come together. After it all comes together, transfer dough to a large bowl and cover with wax paper. Allow the dough to double in size and rise. Should take 1/2 - 1 hour.
- Now that the dough has risen take it out and knead on counter top for a few minutes by hand. You want the dough to be smooth and silky not sticky. You may need to sprinkle some flour on dough as you knead it.
- Cut the dough in half and pat each half into the shape of a loaf. Place each loaf into a loaf pan.
- Cover loaves with wax paper and let them rise until they double in size.
- Heat oven to 350℉
- Bake loaves for approximately 50 minutes or until thermometer reads 190℉
- Turn loaves out of pan and let cook completely on wire rack.
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