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Activate the yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to rise.
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- In a large bowl, mix the warm milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Add the yeast mixture once it’s ready.
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Add the flour:
- Gradually add 5 cups of flour to the wet ingredients, mixing it in slowly to form a dough. You may need to add an extra 30-50 grams of flour as you work with the dough, depending on the consistency.
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Knead the dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 10 minutes, adding a little more flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
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Let the dough rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
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Prepare the loaf:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface again and shape it into a loaf. You can place it in a greased bread pan or shape it freeform.
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Second rise:
- Cover the shaped dough with a cloth and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, allowing the dough to puff up.
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Preheat the oven:
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake the bread:
- Once the dough has risen, place it in the
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Add butter:
- As soon as the bread is out of the oven, brush the top with softened butter for a soft, golden finish.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or store in an for up to 3 days.
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