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It is not known when yeast was first used to bake bread the earliest definite records come from Ancient Egypt. minor) is a wild yeast found on plants, grains, and fruits that is occasionally used for baking however, in general, it is not used in a pure form but comes from being propagated in a sourdough starter.Ī block of compressed fresh yeast in its wrapper Some sources say fats, such as butter and eggs, slow down yeast growth others say the effect of fat on dough remains unclear, presenting evidence that small amounts of fat are beneficial for baked bread volume. Yeast growth is inhibited by both salt and sugar, but more so by salt than sugar. The use of steamed or boiled potatoes, water from potato boiling, or sugar in a bread dough provides food for the growth of yeasts however, too much sugar will dehydrate them. Baker's yeast is also a single-cell microorganism found on and around the human body. Baker's yeast is of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and is the same species (but a different strain) as the kind commonly used in alcoholic fermentation, which is called brewer's yeast. Therefore, if a recipe asks for 7g dried yeast you will need to use 14g of fresh or compressed yeast and vice versa.Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the yeast commonly used as baker's yeast. Gradation marks are 1 µm apartīaker's yeast is the common name for the strains of yeast commonly used in baking bread and other bakery products, serving as a leavening agent which causes the bread to rise (expand and become lighter and softer) by converting the fermentable sugars present in the dough into carbon dioxide and ethanol. These two types of yeast are interchangeable in recipes, but remember that you need to use twice as much fresh yeast (by weight) than dry. Add the yeast mixture to the remaining lukewarm liquid before continuing with the recipe. Then set aside in a warm, draught-free place for 5-10 minutes or until bubbles form on the top and the mixture is foamy.ģ. It’s also a good idea to stir in a small portion of the flour (about 2 teaspoons) and sugar (about 1 teaspoon) to help activate it more quickly.Ģ. Crumble the yeast and dissolve it in a small portion of the lukewarm water or milk specified in the recipe’s ingredients list (for 14g fresh yeast add about 2 tablespoons of the water). When using fresh yeast it will first need to be activated by before adding to the dry ingredients.
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Generally dried yeast will keep for a year or more – just check the used by date on the packaging.įresh yeast is generally sold by weight and is available from selected delicatessens, health food stores and bakeries. It is available in sealed individual sachets, which can be stored at room temperature, or sealed canisters that are best stored in the fridge or freezer once opened. Instant dried yeast can be added directly to the other dough ingredients without the need to activate it first like fresh yeast. Fresh yeast is also great for doughs that require a long, slow proving time as it stays active for longer than dried yeast. Dried yeast is reliable and convenient while I believe that fresh yeast can give a better texture and flavour, especially to rich yeasted breads. There are two main types of commercially available yeast used for making yeasted breads – instant dried yeast and fresh or compressed yeast.
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