Is organic bread really healthier than regular bread?

Making organic bread at home can be a rewarding process. Here's a basic step-by-step recipe for making organic whole wheat bread along with an indication of calories. Keep in mind that the calorie count may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Organic Whole Wheat Bread Recipe with Caloric Information:

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 3 1/2 cups organic whole wheat flour

• 1/4 cup organic flax seed meal

• 1/4 cup organic chia seeds

• 1/4 cup organic rolled oats (plus extra for topping)

• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 2 tablespoons organic olive oil

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:

• In a bowl, combine warm water and honey or maple syrup. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, flax seed meal, chia seeds, rolled oats, and salt.

1. Mix Wet Ingredients:

• Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix well to form a dough.

1. Knead the Dough:

• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

1. First Rise:

• Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

1. Shape the Loaf:

• Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.

1. Second Rise:

• Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

1. Top with Oats:

• Brush the top of the risen dough with water and sprinkle additional rolled oats on top.

1. Bake:

• Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

1. Cool:

• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Caloric Information:

• The calorie count for a slice of organic whole wheat bread (assuming around 16 slices per loaf) is approximately 80-100 calories, depending on specific ingredients.

Adjustments can be made to the recipe based on your taste preferences and dietary needs. If you have specific concerns about calories or dietary restrictions, it's advisable to consult with a nutritionist or healthcare professional.