Multigrain Bread for ABM (Amish Friendship Starter)

The aroma of freshly baked bread has always held a special place in my heart. I remember as a child, my grandmother’s kitchen was a haven filled with warmth and the yeasty scent of rising dough. She always seemed to have a loaf cooling on the counter, ready to be slathered with butter or jam. It was a simple pleasure, but one that felt like the ultimate expression of love. This multigrain bread, made with the intriguing addition of Amish Friendship Starter, reminds me of those cherished moments – a hearty, wholesome loaf that nourishes both body and soul.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 2 lbs)
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup hot tap water
• 1 cup Amish Starter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 cups wheat flour (I use white whole wheat flour)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast (feel free to put the entire little packet in)

Multigrain Mix:

• 1 tablespoon rye flakes
• 1 tablespoon wheat flakes
• 1 tablespoon whole oat groats (also known as oat berries)
• 1 tablespoon millet
• 1 tablespoon flax seed
• 1 tablespoon poppy seed
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds

Equipment Needed

• Bread Machine (ABM)

Instructions

1. Place all ingredients into the bread machine pan in the order suggested by your bread machine manufacturer. This is a crucial step, as the order of ingredients can affect the final outcome of your loaf. Some bread machines require wet ingredients first, followed by dry, while others prefer the opposite order. Refer to your ABM’s manual for the correct sequence. For my Corner Bakery bread machine, the order is as listed above: wet ingredients, followed by dry ingredients.
2. Select the French Bread setting on your bread machine.
3. Choose the Light Crust setting. This will prevent the crust from becoming too dark and hard, allowing the inside to remain soft and chewy.
4. Press Start and let the bread machine work its magic! The entire process, including kneading, rising, and baking, will take approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes.
5. Once baking is complete, immediately remove the loaf from the bread machine pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This is important to prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy. Allow the bread to cool for at least an hour before slicing.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Grain Substitution: Feel free to substitute any of the grains in the multigrain mix for others that you have on hand. The key is to maintain the total amount of 8 tablespoons. Rolled oats and quinoa are excellent alternatives. You can also increase the amounts of the other grains you’re already using.
• Amish Starter Boost: If you want to intensify the tangy flavor of the bread, consider adding an extra 1/4 cup of Amish Friendship Starter. This will also contribute to a slightly more moist crumb.
• Flour Power: The ratio of bread flour to wheat flour is important for achieving the right texture. Bread flour has a higher gluten content, which provides structure and chewiness. Wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and nutritional value. I prefer using white whole wheat flour, as it offers a milder flavor than traditional whole wheat flour.
• Hydration Levels: Bread machine recipes can be sensitive to the amount of moisture. If your dough appears too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it forms a smooth, slightly sticky ball. Conversely, if the dough is too wet and sticky, add a tablespoon of bread flour until it comes together.
• Yeast Activation: To ensure your yeast is active, proof it by dissolving it in the warm water with a teaspoon of sugar for 5-10 minutes before adding it to the bread machine. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it’s no longer viable and should be replaced.
• Preheating the Starter: If your Amish Friendship Starter has been refrigerated, bring it to room temperature before adding it to the bread machine. This will help the yeast activate more quickly and evenly.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This multigrain bread is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Slice it thickly and spread with butter, jam, or your favorite nut butter. It also makes excellent toast for breakfast or sandwiches for lunch.

• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat frozen bread, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature. You can also reheat individual slices in a toaster or oven.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with hearty soups or stews for a comforting meal. It also pairs well with cheese and charcuterie for a sophisticated appetizer.

Nutritional Information

(Estimated values per serving, may vary depending on specific ingredients used)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	161 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	3.1 g	4%
Saturated Fat	0.4 g	2%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	391 mg	16%
Total Carbohydrate	29 g	9%
Dietary Fiber	3.1 g	12%
Sugars	0.3 g	1%
Protein	5.2 g	10%

Variations & Substitutions

• Sweet Bread: Add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup for a sweeter loaf. You can also incorporate dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates.
• Herbaceous Bread: Mix in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, for a savory twist.
• Seed Sensation: Enhance the seedy flavor by adding more of your favorite seeds, like pumpkin seeds or hemp seeds, to the multigrain mix.
• Gluten-Free Option: While this recipe uses wheat flour, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for bread machines. Be sure to follow the instructions on the flour blend package for best results. You may also need to add a binding agent like xanthan gum.
• Dairy-Free Version: This recipe is already dairy-free. Ensure the oil you use is plant-based.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is Amish Friendship Starter?
A: Amish Friendship Starter is a sweet, yeasty dough that is shared and cared for over several days. It’s used to make a variety of baked goods, adding a unique tangy flavor and moist texture.

Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: While bread flour and wheat flour are recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with other flours like spelt flour or rye flour. Just be aware that the final result may vary.

Q: What if my bread machine doesn’t have a French Bread setting?
A: If your bread machine doesn’t have a French Bread setting, use the closest setting available, such as the basic bread setting or a longer bake cycle. Monitor the bread closely and adjust the baking time as needed.

Q: My bread is too dense. What did I do wrong?
A: Dense bread can be caused by several factors, including using old yeast, not enough liquid, or over-kneading. Make sure your yeast is fresh and properly proofed, and adjust the liquid levels as needed.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a bread machine?
A: Yes, but the process will be different. You’ll need to knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer, allow it to rise in a warm place, and then bake it in a preheated oven. Search online for “how to bake bread by hand” instructions. Baking time and temperature will vary, so monitor the bread carefully.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own hearty loaf of multigrain bread, infused with the delightful tang of Amish Friendship Starter. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different grains and seeds to customize the flavor to your liking. Baking bread is a rewarding experience, and sharing a homemade loaf with friends and family is a gesture of love that will be truly appreciated. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your bread machine, and enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen! I would love to hear about your baking adventures – please share your feedback and variations in the comments below. Perhaps a warm slice alongside a steaming bowl of tomato soup? The possibilities are endless!