Bread : A Baker's Book of Techniques and Recipes

The warm, complex aroma of a fresh baked loaf of bread can be utterly tantalizing; the first bite, a revelation. In Bread: A Baker s Book of Techniques and Recipes, award winning master baker Jeffrey Hamelman presents the definitive, one stop reference on the art and science of bread baking—a kitchen essential for seasoned home bakers and professionals alike. Hamelman, a professional baker for nearly three decades, was a member of Baking Team USA,which represents the United States in the international Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie, the bread baking World Cup. Here, he shares this experience, putting world class artisanal loaves within reach of any serious baker. Opening with a comprehensive overview of the foundations—essential ingredients; hand techniques for kneading, scoring, and shaping; the basic process from mixing through baking—he lucidly guides bakers through all elements of this richly rewarding craft. Bread contains 118 detailed, step by step recipes for an array of breads—versatile sourdough ryes; numerous breads made with pre ferments; and simple, straight dough loaves. Recipes for brioche, focaccia, pizza dough, flat breads, and other traditional baking staples augment the diverse collection of flavors, tastes, and textures represented within these pages. From the delicate flavor and aroma of classic French baguettes to the mellow smoothness of Roasted Garlic Levain, a bread for every season and every palate is here. Each recipe clearly outlines the key stages, with easy to use charts that list ingredients in both American and metric measures, quantities appropriate for home baking, and baker s percentages. Hundreds of drawings vividly illustrate techniques, and 35 handsome color photographs display finished breads. Sidebars accompany each recipe and section with valuable tips, from the subtle art of tasting and evaluating breads to the perfect fare to complement Vollkornbrot. A complete chapter on decorative breads—with instructions on techniques as well as a wide variety of exquisite patterns—will inspire magnificent display creations. Laced throughout the book, Hamelman s personal narratives offer a compelling portrait of a lifelong love affair with bread and vividly communicate this passion. For bakers seeking to finesse this time honored craft or simply to learn the tricks of the trade from a real master, Bread is a resource to be consulted time and time again. CHIHO KANEKO is a fine artist whose work has been exhibited both in the United States and Japan. She also works as a translator and interpreter. She is a native of Japan with a background in landscape architecture, agronomy, and art.