Amazing Challah Recipe

Challah is a traditional Jewish bread that is often enjoyed on Shabbat and holidays. It is known for its rich and slightly sweet flavor, soft texture, and beautiful braided appearance. Challah is typically made with ingredients like flour, water, yeast, sugar, eggs, and sometimes oil. The dough is usually braided before baking, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing loaf.

Challah is a versatile bread and can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be served as a centerpiece on the Shabbat table, used to make sandwiches, or enjoyed as French toast or bread pudding. The bread is symbolic in Jewish culture, representing the double portion of manna that the Israelites received in the desert on Fridays during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Challah is not only delicious but also carries cultural and religious significance. Its delightful taste and beautiful presentation make it a favorite among many, regardless of their religious background.

An amazing Challah recipe for you:

Ingredients:

• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs (plus 1 for egg wash)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the vegetable oil, 3 eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk everything together until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back to the floured surface and divide it into three equal portions.
7. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 16 inches in length. Pinch the three ropes together at one end and braid them loosely.
8. Once braided, pinch the ends together and tuck them under the loaf. Place the Challah on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Cover the loaf with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until it puffs up.
10. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the second rise.
11. Beat the remaining egg in a small bowl and brush it over the Challah loaf gently. This will give the bread a beautiful golden brown color when baked.
12. Bake the Challah in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it turns golden brown on top.
13. Once baked, remove the Challah from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Challah! It's perfect for enjoying on its own, making sandwiches, or serving as a side with meals.