Bread baking is an age-old tradition that has evolved over time, welcoming new ingredients and techniques.
One of the most delightful ways to enhance your homemade bread is by incorporating a variety of seeds. From adding texture to boosting nutrition, seeds not only make your bread visually appealing but also contribute to its taste and health benefits.
Today, we want to share some of our favourite types of seeds to include in your bread recipes! 🙌
- Flax Seeds
Flax seeds are a popular choice for adding a nutritional boost to your bread. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants, flax seeds are not only great for your heart health but also add a great nutty flavor.
- Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are a versatile addition that brings a subtle nuttiness and a delightful crunch to your bread. These seeds are rich in vitamin E, healthy fats, and magnesium. To elevate the flavor and texture, you can toast the sunflower seeds before incorporating them into your dough.
- Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are a staple in many cuisines and can be a wonderful addition to your bread. Incorporating sesame seeds not only enhances the flavor of your bread but also introduces calcium, iron, and healthy fats.
- Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas)
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are a fantastic choice for adding a satisfying crunch to your bread. These seeds are a good source of protein, magnesium, and zinc. Toasted pumpkin seeds can be used to garnish the bread's surface or mixed directly into the dough for a unique textural experience.
- Chia Seeds
Chia seeds have gained popularity for their incredible nutritional profile, including high levels of fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. When added to bread, chia seeds absorb moisture and create a gel-like consistency, which contributes to the bread's overall texture and hydration.
- Poppy Seeds
Poppy seeds are tiny, yet they bring a burst of visual interest and a mild nutty flavor to your bread. Often used in sweet bread recipes, like lemon poppy seed bread, these seeds can also be a great addition to savory loaves.
- Quinoa Seeds
Quinoa seeds are not only a fantastic source of complete protein but also add a unique texture to your bread. When incorporated into the dough, they create a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft crumb. Before using them, make sure to rinse and cook the quinoa to remove its bitter outer coating.
Seeds are a wonderful way to elevate your homemade bread, both in terms of flavor and nutritional value. So next time when you will be planning your bread baking, let the imagination guide you and incorporate the seeds to your bread. Trust us, you won't regret it! 🍞
