When it comes to fast food favorites, Subway sandwiches often top the list for many. The allure of fresh, deliciously baked bread enveloping your favorite fillings is hard to resist. But have you ever considered recreating that iconic bread at home? Welcome to your ultimate guide on how to make Subway bread from scratch, taking your sandwiches from ordinary to extraordinary.
The Importance of Fresh Bread
The foundation of a great sandwich lies in its bread. Homemade bread offers not just a burst of flavor but also a fresh texture that you simply cannot get from store-bought bread. Making your own Subway-style bread can elevate your culinary repertoire and impress family and friends alike. Plus, knowing the ingredients allows you to control the quality and taste of your bread.
Essential Ingredients
Before we dive into the actual recipe, it’s crucial to understand the ingredients you’ll need to replicate that beloved Subway bread texture and flavor. While there are many types of Subway bread, such as Italian, whole wheat, and hearty Italian, we’ll focus on a simple yet popular version: the classic white bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups | Main structure |
| Warm water | 1.5 cups | Activates yeast |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons | Feeds the yeast |
| Active dry yeast | 2.5 teaspoons | Leavening agent |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons | Flavor enhancement |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Adds moisture and flavor |
With these basic ingredients on hand, let’s move on to the preparation process.
Step-By-Step Guide to Make Subway Bread
When it comes to making bread at home, patience is key. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how you can create that iconic texture and flavor in your kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast
- Activate the Yeast: Begin by combining the warm water and sugar in a mixing bowl. Ensure the water temperature is between 100°F to 110°F (37°C to 43°C) for optimal yeast activation. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that your yeast is alive and kicking.
Step 2: Mixing the Dough
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Once mixed, create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with olive oil.
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Mix Well: Use a wooden spoon or your hands to combine the ingredients until a dough forms. You might find it necessary to add a little more flour or water depending on the humidity and temperature of your kitchen.
Step 3: Kneading the Dough
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This step is crucial as kneading develops the gluten, giving the bread its structure.
Step 4: First Rise
- Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment for approximately 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shaping the Loaf
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Transfer it to a floured surface and gently shape it into a rectangle. Depending on your preference, you can make a long loaf or divide it into smaller sub rolls.
Tips for Shaping
- For a classic Subway sandwich roll, aim for a shape that’s about 12 inches long.
- For smaller loaves or rolls, consider 6-inch portions, which are perfect for individual servings.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Second Rise: Place your shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it loosely and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Step 7: Prepping for Baking
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Preheat the Oven: While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your bread will bake evenly when it’s time.
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Prepare for Baking: Once the dough has risen, use a sharp knife to make a few slashes on top of the bread. This step is essential for allowing steam to escape during baking.
Step 8: Baking the Bread
- Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The internal temperature of the bread should reach around 190°F (88°C) for optimum doneness.
Step 9: Cooling
- Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack for cooling. Waiting for the bread to cool before cutting into it allows the texture to set properly.
Storing Your Homemade Subway Bread
Once you’ve mastered the art of making Subway bread, it’s important to know how to store it properly to maintain its freshness.
Room Temperature Storage
- Keep it Wrapped: Store the cooled bread in a plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure it is sealed properly to avoid drying out.
Freezing for Later Use
- Freeze for Freshness: If you want to save some for later, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Ways to Enjoy Your Subway Bread
Now that you’ve made your Subway-style bread, how can you elevate your sandwich experience? Here are a couple of delicious ideas:
Create Your Favorite Subway Sandwich
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Classic Italian BMT: Layer your bread with turkey, ham, salami, provolone cheese, and a selection of veggies like lettuce, tomato, and bell peppers—don’t forget the herbs and oil dressing!
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Veggie Delight: Go fresh and light with hummus, cucumbers, spinach, and mixed bell peppers. It makes for a delightful vegetarian option!
Experiment with Other Recipes
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Garlic Breadsticks: Take your unused bread dough and shape it into sticks. Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with parmesan before baking for a delectable side dish.
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Bread Pudding: Use leftover bread to create a delicious bread pudding with eggs, milk, sugar, and spices for a sweet dessert.
Conclusion
Making Subway-style bread at home is not only a fun and rewarding culinary project but also a great way to ensure you are serving up the freshest sandwiches possible. With just a few key ingredients and a bit of patience, you can achieve that fluffy, chewy texture reminiscent of your favorite sub shop.
So roll up your sleeves, and the next time you’re craving a sandwich, make your own homemade Subway bread. It’s an adventure in the kitchen that will culminate in flavorful creations that will surely impress. Happy baking!
What ingredients do I need to make Subway bread at home?
To make Subway-style bread at home, you’ll need a few key ingredients: all-purpose flour, yeast, salt, sugar, water, and vegetable oil. If you’re aiming for a specific type of bread, like the Italian or the whole wheat, you may need to incorporate additional flavorings or ingredients like whole wheat flour or various seasonings.
In addition to these basics, you might want to consider adding ingredients for flavor, such as herbs or garlic powder, depending on the type of Subway bread you’re trying to replicate. Having a good quality active dry yeast will also ensure that your bread rises properly and has a delightful texture.
How long does it take to prepare the bread?
Preparing Subway bread at home typically involves a few time-consuming steps, mainly because of the rising and baking periods. The initial mixing and kneading of the dough usually takes about 15-20 minutes. After that, you’ll need to let the dough rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours until it has doubled in size.
Once the dough has risen, shaping and arranging it for baking will take another 30 minutes, including a second rise. Finally, baking the bread itself usually requires about 20-25 minutes. In total, you might spend around 2.5 to 3 hours from start to finish, though much of this time is spent waiting for the dough to rise.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can definitely use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the bread. Whole wheat flour tends to make the bread denser and richer in nutrients. For a more authentic Subway experience, you might consider blending whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour to maintain a lighter texture while still getting the benefits of whole grains.
If you choose to use only whole wheat flour, keeping an eye on the hydration levels of your dough is important, as this type of flour tends to absorb more water. You might need to increase the amount of liquid in your recipe slightly to achieve the right consistency for your bread.
What type of yeast is best for this bread recipe?
For making Subway-style bread at home, active dry yeast or instant yeast is usually the best choice. Both types can produce excellent results, but instant yeast has the advantage of not requiring proofing in water before use, which can save time in the preparation process.
If you opt for active dry yeast, you will need to dissolve it in warm water along with some sugar to help activate it before incorporating it into your dough. Either way, ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise and flavor in your bread.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for later use, making it a convenient option for meal prep. To freeze the dough, allow it to rise initially, punch it down to remove excess air, and shape it into a ball. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it inside a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
When you’re ready to use the frozen dough, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. After thawing, let it come to room temperature and rise again before baking. This method preserves the flavor and texture of the bread, allowing you to enjoy homemade Subway-style bread whenever you like.
How can I add flavor to my homemade bread?
Adding flavor to your homemade Subway bread can elevate it from ordinary to extraordinary. You might consider incorporating ingredients like dried herbs (oregano, basil, or rosemary), garlic powder, or even grated cheese into the dough. Adding these ingredients during the mixing stage can help infuse the bread with delightful flavors.
Additionally, brushing the bread with garlic butter or herb-infused oil before baking can add a crispy, flavorful crust. You can also experiment with toppings, such as sesame seeds or poppy seeds, which are commonly found on some Subway bread varieties, to further enhance the flavor and presentation.
What should I do if my bread didn’t rise properly?
If your bread didn’t rise properly, the first thing to check is the freshness of your yeast. Yeast that has expired or been stored improperly may not activate well, resulting in flat dough. If you’re using active dry yeast, ensure that you proof it properly before incorporating it into your dough. An ideal temperature for proofing is between 100°F to 110°F; too hot water can kill the yeast, while too cold will not activate it.
Another factor could be the temperature of your environment. Yeast thrives in warm, draft-free areas, so if your room is too cool, it might slow down the rising process. If necessary, you can place your dough in a turned-off oven with the light on to create a warmer atmosphere, helping it rise properly.
How do I store the bread once it’s baked?
Once your Subway-style bread is baked and cooled to room temperature, it can be stored to maintain freshness. You have a couple of options: wrapping the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil will help keep it soft and protected from air exposure. It’s best to store it at room temperature if you plan to consume it within a few days.
If you want to keep the bread for more extended periods, consider freezing it. You can slice the bread into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw the slices at room temperature or toast them directly from the freezer for a fresh taste!