Home Made Bread for a Home Made Girl

This is my niece, Charlotte. She just found out that the toast she is eating is from a home made loaf of bread by yours truly.

I’m in my hometown for the holidays and while others are baking cookies, pies and squares, I’m making veggie soup and dairy-free, wheat-free bread.  

Most bread is made with enriched flour.   Certain manufacturers argue that enriched bread is better for consumers: they claim that it provides extra vitamins, calcium and essential nutrients.  

But what does this really mean? 

Flour is made from a whole grain. When these grains are processed into white flour, some of the nutrients that occur naturally in the whole grain are destroyed. Enriching flour is the act of replacing these lost nutrients.  Not everyone believes that these additions are harmful. After all, the bread does not contain any new ingredients that were not there before the flour was processed. It is important to note that some flours (and breads) will also contain additives and preservatives to extend shelf life or reduce mix time.

There are some good alternatives available at most grocery stores so when looking at the ingredient list, look to see if the bread has been made from whole grain flour. If you have the time and the inclination, try baking your own with quality, whole and organic ingredients.