Basic Whole Wheat Bread

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water
• 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vital wheat gluten
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups bread flour

Directions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, put water and add yeast. Stir to dissolve.

2. 2

   Add brown sugar, gluten and whole wheat flour. Beat well. Let yeast develop for about 10 minutes.

3. 3

   Add oil, orange juice and salt, mix thoroughly.

4. 4

   Add 1 cup bread flour, beat well. Work in the remaining bread flour to form a soft dough.

5. 5

   Turn out to a lightly floured surface and knead 6 to 8 minutes, or until dough is smooth and elastic.

6. 6

   Place the dough in a large oiled bowl and turn to coat. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm, draft free place about one hour, or until doubled in bulk.

7. 7

   Punch dough down. Form it into a log. Place in a greased 9X5X3 - inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise45 minutes, or until nearly doubled.

8. 8

   Bake loaf in a preheated oven ( 375º F ) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until top is golden brown.

9. 9

   Let it cool on a wire rack.