When it comes to creating delicious subs and sandwiches, the bread is the unsung hero. If you’ve ever wondered how to replicate the soft, flavorful bread used at Subway, you’re in the right place. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process of making Subway bread at home, ensuring that your sandwiches will have the perfect foundation. Not only will you learn the ins and outs of gathering your ingredients and following the recipe, but you will also find a link to a helpful video tutorial. Let’s dive into the world of homemade bread!
The Allure of Subway-Style Bread
Subway bread is known for its signature texture and flavor. This style of bread is soft yet retains a slight crust, making it ideal for holding various fillings. What sets this bread apart is its slightly sweet flavor and wonderful aroma. Making bread at home allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste, ensuring your sandwiches are not only tasty but also healthier.
Gathering Your Ingredients
To start making Subway-style bread, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients. Having everything ready allows for a smoother baking experience.
Essential Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Each ingredient plays a crucial role:
- Flour: Provides the structure needed for the bread.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
- Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a slight sweetness.
- Yeast: Responsible for fermentation and helping the bread rise.
- Water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour.
- Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps create a softer crumb.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Subway Bread
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty of bread-making.
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s frothy.
Step 2: Mixing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or dough hook, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shaping the Bread
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions and shape each portion into a loaf. To shape, flatten the dough into a rectangle, then roll it tightly from the short end to create a cylinder.
Shaping Tips
- Ensure the ends are tucked in to create a nice, smooth surface.
- Pinch the seam to secure the loaf.
Place the shaped loaves on a lightly greased baking sheet. Cover with a kitchen towel and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Step 6: Baking the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the second rise. Once ready, place the loaves in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Cooling
Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Allowing the bread to cool completely before slicing will ensure the texture remains intact.
Tips for Perfect Subway-Style Bread
Achieving the perfect bread at home is all about technique and practice. Here are some valuable tips to elevate your bread-making game:
Humidity and Temperature
The environment can affect how your bread rises. Ensure you’re working in a warm, draft-free space. If it’s too humid, your dough may be too sticky; if it’s too dry, it may not rise properly.
Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or seasonings to the dough. Garlic powder, Italian herbs, or even cheese can add a delicious twist.
Why Make Bread at Home?
Making Subway-style bread at home has numerous advantages.
Quality Control
You have complete control over the ingredients used. You can opt for organic or non-GMO flour and skip any preservatives or artificial flavors found in store-bought options.
Cost-Effectiveness
Homemade bread can be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you’re a frequent sandwich maker. You save money while enjoying a delicious product made with love and care.
Therapeutic Experience
Bread-making can be a therapeutic process. Kneading the dough provides a great workout and a satisfying sense of accomplishment once you pull that golden loaf out of the oven.
Video Tutorial: Making Subway-Style Bread at Home
To enhance your bread-making skills, check out this video tutorial that visually guides you through each step of the process. Watching someone else make the bread can give you insights and techniques to perfect your loaf.
Storing Your Homemade Bread
To keep your homemade bread fresh, store it properly:
Room Temperature
If you plan to consume the bread within a few days, store it in a bread box or wrap it in a kitchen towel at room temperature.
Freezing for Later Use
For longer storage, slice the bread and place it in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Bread can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
Making Subway-style bread at home is not just a way to create a better sandwich; it’s an opportunity to connect with your food and take pride in your kitchen skills. With time and practice, you’ll master this delightful bread recipe, impressing friends and family along the way. Remember, the secret lies in the ingredients, patience, and love you put into your baking. So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and get started on your journey to homemade bread bliss!
What ingredients do I need to make Subway-style bread at home?
To create Subway-style bread at home, you will need basic ingredients such as all-purpose flour, yeast, sugar, salt, water, and oil. For the best results, it’s beneficial to use bread flour, as it contains more protein, helping achieve the desired texture and chewiness. If you want to replicate the flavors found in Subway bread, consider adding vital wheat gluten or different seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder.
You may also want to experiment with additional ingredients, such as dairy, to enhance richness. Milk or butter can provide extra flavor and tenderness to the loaf. Additionally, consider adding optional toppings such as sesame seeds or poppy seeds to mimic the variety found in Subway’s sandwich offerings.
How long does it take to make Subway-style bread?
The entire process of making Subway-style bread from scratch typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, including preparation, proofing, and baking. The kneading and initial mixing should take about 30 minutes, followed by first proofing, which can last anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the recipe and ambient temperature.
After the first rise, you’ll shape and form the dough, followed by a second proofing period. This second rise usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Finally, baking the bread takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, resulting in a fresh, golden loaf ready to be transformed into your favorite sandwich.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can certainly use whole wheat flour instead of white flour to make Subway-style bread, but it may alter the texture and flavor of the final product. Whole wheat flour has a denser texture and a nuttier flavor compared to all-purpose flour, which could affect your bread’s overall chewiness and rise. To counter this, many bakers blend whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour, generally in a ratio of 1:1.
If you want to use solely whole wheat flour, be prepared for some adjustments. You may need to increase the amount of water in the recipe to account for the higher absorption capacity of whole wheat flour. Additionally, kneading the dough longer may help achieve a better gluten structure, ensuring that your bread rises well.
What is the best way to store homemade Subway-style bread?
To keep your homemade Subway-style bread fresh, it’s essential to store it properly. Once the bread has completely cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. If you plan to consume the bread within a few days, storing it at room temperature in a bread box or a paper bag can help maintain its texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing the bread. Slice the loaf before freezing to make it convenient for future use. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag to protect against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy your bread, simply toast or thaw slices as needed.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Subway-style bread dough ahead of time. After mixing and kneading the dough, allow it to rise until it has doubled in size. From this point, you can either shape it and let it go through the second rise, or you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. This slow fermentation process can enhance the flavor of the bread significantly.
If you opt for the refrigeration method, make sure to shape the dough and let it rest on the counter to regain some warmth before the final proofing. This technique allows more flexibility in your baking schedule while still yielding delicious results. Just remember that the longer fermentation time will influence the bread’s flavor profile, increasing its complexity.
What type of baking pan is best for Subway-style bread?
When making Subway-style bread, the preferred baking pan is a standard loaf pan, usually 9×5 inches. This size is ideal for creating the rectangular shape that resembles the bread used in traditional Subway sandwiches. Additionally, a non-stick pan can simplify the removal of the bread after baking, ensuring a smooth and easy process.
Alternatively, you can bake the bread on a baking sheet or a pizza stone. If you choose a baking sheet, shape the dough into a longer loaf and allow it to bake directly on the sheet, potentially giving it a crustier exterior. Just remember to keep an eye on the baking time, as the shape and surface area can influence how quickly the bread bakes.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Subway-style bread?
Enhancing the flavor of your Subway-style bread can be accomplished through several methods. One approach is to incorporate various herbs and spices into the dough. Common choices include dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, or even onion powder. These additions can lend a savory note that complements your sandwiches beautifully.
Another effective way to boost flavor is by using a preferment, like a biga or poolish, which is a mixture of flour, water, and a small amount of yeast allowed to ferment before being mixed into the final dough. This technique allows for a more complex flavor profile and can improve the bread’s texture as well. Experimenting with different fats, such as olive oil or melted butter, can also add richness and improve the overall taste.