Currently taking a self-imposed spring break before work gets super crazy. Pretty much the best idea ever:
family ski trip: lots of laughing, some faceplanting (never try to push me as we get off the lift or bad things will happen to you), and gorgeous weather.
epic day of yeast-bread baking: yeast is a unicellular organism that ferments sugar into carbon dioxide gas, causing bread to rise. Making yeast bread can be a little tricky because the water temperature for dissolving has to be just right (100-110 F).
I helped Dave make this recipe for whole wheat bread with caraway and anise, which ends with semi-braiding the bread. It was hardcore (as in 10 minutes of kneading which I didn’t do) but turned out really well…it’s pretty amazing to make and eat your own bread.
The second best use of yeast is to make homemade pizza dough. I actually prefer homemade pizza over other pizza. And it’s incredibly easy (and cheap!) to make.
Super excited that spring starts this Sunday…it’s about time!
Do you have a fave recipe that incorporates yeast?

I didn't even realize spring officially starts this Sunday, that's exciting!
ReplyDeleteYour bread looks amazing! And I'm glad you got to spend some fun time with the family skiing! :)
Enjoy the weekend!
Cinnamon rolls ;)
ReplyDeleteBread is definitely my number one use of yeast! Yours look fantastic!
ReplyDeleteloveee making homemade pizza doughs!!!!
ReplyDeleteThe bread looks great! I've made a few pizza doughs with yeast, but to be honest, yeast intimidates me a bit, so I usually avoid it... I know it shouldn't...
ReplyDeleteGlad you are having some fun!
Yep, I agree, homemade pizza is the best. And in fact it's the only thing I have ever made with yeast. Is that sad??
ReplyDeleteI haven't been skiing in YEARS and I can only imagine how bad I would be if I strapped on a pair of skis right now. So fun though, I know I'd love it!
The ski trip sounds great! And I loove homemade pizza. Especially with lots of olives and veggies!
ReplyDeleteso pleased you had fun and great eats
ReplyDeleteBoth look delish!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks for posting the recipes.
ReplyDeleteENJOY your break! It will be a while b4 it feels like spring in Eastern WA. :P
ahhh i really want to make my own bread with yeast! and maybe attempt to braid it too :). happy pseudo spring break :). i just started mine...!!! yay!
ReplyDeleteI have a recipe for pretzels that use a little packet of yeast to make the dough rise... and I am DYYYYING to make them but super scared that I'll butcher it by not having a stand mixer (alton brown says I need one... boo!)
ReplyDeletelong story short, I want to cook with yeast. but i'm chicken =)
your bread and pizza look DIVINE!
xoXOxo
Jenn @ Peas & Crayons
Em, you are becoming quite the baker! That loaf of bread is beautiful! And I agree pizza dough is so easy, there's no need to get the pre-made ones at the store.
ReplyDeleteYes! Homemade pizza dough is the best! Although when the yeast doesn't work, I get upset.
ReplyDeleteLooks like you had some nice time off. I have never been skiing, but I would love to try it. I hate the cold so I imagine it will not be the most pleasant experience, but I am still willing to try. I would rather water ski.
ReplyDeleteMy fave yeast containing recipe is beer (we brew at home)...but if that does not count, I love to make all kinds of breads, especially ones with whole grains.
I like homemade pizza too!!! It just tastes better in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteyay for skiing! I think I prefer boarding but just skiied this year for the first time in 15+ years. I was much better when I was 13.
ah well. I wish I had my own gear and made it a habit!
I've never made anything with yeast before- it intimidates me :)
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