"Jewish Challah Recipe: The Perfect Bread for Your Sabbath Table"
Guide or Summary：Jewish ChallahIngredientsInstructionsJewish ChallahThe Jewish Challah is a traditional bread that is deeply rooted in cultural and religiou……
Guide or Summary：
Jewish Challah
The Jewish Challah is a traditional bread that is deeply rooted in cultural and religious significance. It is often enjoyed during the Sabbath and Jewish holidays, and it has become a staple in many Jewish households around the world. This recipe for Jewish Challah is designed to produce a soft, fluffy, and aromatic bread that is perfect for your Sabbath table.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Jewish Challah, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 to 5 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir well to dissolve the yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the eggs and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, combine 4 cups of the all-purpose flour and the salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes easier to handle.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If you are using raisins, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and caraway seeds, fold them into the dough at this point.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll out each piece of dough on a lightly floured surface into a long, thin rectangle.
7. Take the three rectangles and stack them on top of each other. Pinch the edges together to seal the dough, and then braid the dough tightly, tucking in the ends as you go.
8. Place the braided dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen again, beat one egg and brush it over the top of the bread to give it a shiny golden finish.
10. Bake the Jewish Challah in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until it becomes golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
This Jewish Challah recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the delicious flavors of traditional Jewish bread. It is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you are celebrating the Sabbath or any other Jewish holiday, this Jewish Challah recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious and easy it is to make your own Jewish Challah at home?