The Fresh Loaf

A Community of Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts.

Hello, new baker

Klamp's picture
Klamp

Hello, new baker

Hi,

Over the years I've become increasingly more conscious about my food chain/supply and now I'm interested in producing my own flour for breads and baked goods.  I'm perfectly comfortable in the kitchen preparing meals, but don't have a lot of experience baking, though I can make a batch of cookies with ease. 

I don't currently own a stand mixer or grain mill but intend to in the near future. However, they are large investments, so any recommendations or suggestions would be welcome. I do consider them investments, so I'm more interested in capabilities and quality than price. 

Also, can anyone suggest some first-time bread bakers recipes for sandwich bread and baguettes?  I'm interested in trying the Americas Test Kitchen recipe for baguettes but wonder how it fares with whole wheat (recipe calls for apf). 

Thanks in advance.

KathyF's picture
KathyF

Before you start working with milling your own grain, I would suggest getting a good handle on baking bread first. A very good resource is the link at the top of the page menu bar "Handbook". It will give you a good base to start with.

Personally, for the America's Test Kitchen recipe, I would suggest trying the recipe exactly as written before trying it with whole wheat.

pmccool's picture
pmccool

Assuming you don't have any physical limitations, there's no need to spend a bunch of money on a mixer or a mill just yet.  A typical sandwich loaf is easily mixed by hand and store-bought flours are a great place to start practicing your bread making skills.

Instead of a baguette, which looks simple and is technically demanding, may I point you to the Lessons link in the menu bar at the top of the page?  Start there with the first lesson.  Make that bread several times until you are comfortable with it and understand how it works.  Then move to Lesson 2 and repeat.  You will build your repertoire of skills as you go and an increased understanding of what does and doesn't work.  Ask questions here whenever you need to.

Although there is much to learn, the basics are relatively simple.  Enjoy your new bread world!

Paul