Bacon and Onion Bread.

Bacon and Onion Bread: The Cozy Loaf You Never Knew You Needed

If you've ever walked into a kitchen and been greeted by the delicious aroma of bacon and onions sizzling together, you understand the magic these two ingredients hold. This Bacon and Onion Bread recipe takes that comforting feeling to a whole new level. This loaf combines the salty, smoky goodness of bacon with the sweet, rich flavors of sautéed onions. Whether you're enjoying it fresh from the oven, toasted for breakfast, or as part of a hearty sandwich, this bread is sure to warm your heart and home.

Ingredients You'll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delightful loaf:

• 150g cooked diced smoked bacon

• 1/2 diced red onion

• 360ml warm water

• 2 tbsp milk powder

• 3 tbsp oil

• 1 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 1/2 tsp sugar

• 1/2 tsp mixed herbs

• 560g bread flour

• 7g dry yeast

  
  

Having all your ingredients ready will streamline your bread-making experience and ensure you don’t miss a step.

Rustic homemade bread infused with pieces of bacon and onion, freshly sliced on a wooden board, showcasing a crispy crust and soft interior.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Before you get started, consider sautéing the diced red onion in a tablespoon of oil over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent. This step enhances its natural sweetness and brings out the deep flavors that will infuse your bread. If your bacon isn't crispy, briefly pan-frying it for 3 to 4 minutes will help deliver that satisfying crunch in each bite.

Mixing It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy. This step is essential to activating the yeast and ensuring a good rise for your bread.

Next, add the oil, milk powder, salt, mixed herbs, sautéed onions, and crispy bacon into the yeast mixture. Stir well until combined before gradually adding the bread flour. Mix until the dough is soft and not overly sticky.

Once combined, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. This crucial step develops the gluten, which gives your bread that perfect structure and chewiness.

First Rise: Let It Rest

Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size—usually around 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time, you can imagine the inviting aroma wafting through your home!

Shaping and the Second Rise

When your dough has risen beautifully, gently punch it down to release trapped air bubbles. Now, you can shape your dough into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions for rolls. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet for rolls, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) as the dough rises for the second time. Once puffed up, slide your bread into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it's a lovely golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you opt for rolls, check them a few minutes earlier and adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes.

The Final Touch: Cooling Down

When your Bacon and Onion Bread emerges from the oven, resist the urge to slice it immediately! Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling period lets the steam escape, ensuring your loaf has a delightful texture.

Enjoying Your Cozy Loaf

Once cooled, slice your bread and savor the rich flavors! This bread is delicious on its own but also pairs wonderfully with butter, cheese, or as a savory toast base for avocado and poached eggs. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon snack, the marriage of crispy bacon and sweet onions creates a flavor experience that will delight your taste buds.

Storing Your Bread

If you have any leftovers (a rare occurrence!), let your bread cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, slice and freeze it. To enjoy later, just pop a slice into the toaster directly from the freezer for a quick and satisfying snack.

A Recipe Worth Repeating

Bacon and Onion Bread isn't just about the taste; it's about creating warmth and comfort in your home. With its inviting aroma and rich flavors, this bread is sure to impress everyone around the table. Plus, the simple joy of baking it is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon with family and friends.

Grab your ingredients and start baking your very own cozy loaf today! You’ll fill your kitchen with irresistible smells and create a delicious bread that your loved ones will cherish. Happy baking!