Grandma’s Secret Soft Poppy Seed Bread
Adding a small amount of vinegar to yeast dough acts as a natural dough conditioner, making the bread incredibly soft, helping it rise higher, and extending its freshness.
Ingredients:
Flour: 3 ½ cups (approx. 500g) All-purpose or Bread flour
Milk: 1 cup (250ml) warm milk
Yeast: 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
Sugar: 2 tbsp
Salt: 1 tsp
Vinegar: 1 tbsp white distilled vinegar (The “Secret Ingredient”)
Butter: 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted, softened
Egg: 1 large egg (at room temperature)
Poppy Seeds: 2 tbsp
Instructions:
Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Mix: Add the egg, softened butter, and the vinegar. Stir in the poppy seeds.
Knead: Gradually add the flour and salt. Knead by hand or with a mixer for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour (or until doubled).
Shape: Punch down the dough. Divide into 4 equal balls and place them in a greased baking pan (as seen in your image).
Second Rise: Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top with a little milk or egg wash. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Lemon, Ginger & Turmeric Water
This warming drink is designed for hydration and comfort.
Ingredients:
Lemon: 3 fresh slices
Ginger: 2–3 slices of raw root
Turmeric: A pinch of ground turmeric or a small piece of fresh root
Black Pepper: A dash (helps with turmeric absorption)
Water: 1 cup of warm water
Instructions:
Place the lemon, ginger, and turmeric into a mug.
Add a dash of black pepper if desired.
Pour warm water over the ingredients and let it infuse for 5 minutes.
Sip slowly.
Simple Clove Infusion
A traditional, aromatic drink made with whole cloves.
Ingredients:
Whole Cloves: 3–5 pieces
Water: 1 cup
Instructions:
Hot Method: Add cloves to boiling water, remove from heat, and steep for 10 minutes.
Overnight Method: Place cloves in room temperature water and let soak overnight for a milder flavor.
Strain the cloves out before drinking.