June 4, 2023

Rustic Country Harvest Bread Recipe: Whole Grains, Seeds, & Honey

N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Homemade Goodness Made Easy: A Bread Machine Recipe for Country Harvest Bread

Few things compare to the wholesome aroma of fresh bread baking at home. Bread, a staple cherished across cultures, takes on many forms, but Country Harvest Bread has a unique appeal with its rustic charm, whole grains, and nutritious seeds. In this post, we’ll uncover the history, popularity, ingredients, nutrition, and serving ideas of Country Harvest Bread. By the end, you’ll see why baking this bread using a bread machine is both convenient and deeply rewarding.

The Story Behind Country Harvest Bread

Country Harvest Bread is inspired by the rustic breads of Europe, where bread-making has been a daily ritual for centuries. Traditionally, European villages shared communal ovens, and each family would bring its own loaf to bake. These breads were crafted from local grains, often mixed with seeds for added flavor and nutrition. Country Harvest Bread revives this tradition, bringing the rustic, hearty flavors of European bread to the home kitchen. Its nutty texture and wholesome ingredients recall the comfort of the past, making it a beloved choice today for anyone seeking nourishment and nostalgia in one bite.

Why Country Harvest Bread is So Popular Today

In an age of processed foods, people are seeking healthier, more natural alternatives, and Country Harvest Bread fits the bill perfectly. With whole grains, seeds, and natural sweeteners like honey, this bread aligns with a wholesome lifestyle, appealing to both traditionalists and health-conscious eaters. The bread machine further amplifies its popularity, allowing novice bakers to create a loaf from scratch with ease, filling their home with the aroma of freshly baked bread and the satisfaction of homemade goodness.

Common Ingredients in Country Harvest Bread

Country Harvest Bread stands out for its carefully selected, nutrient-dense ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what makes it so delicious and nutritious:

Whole Wheat Flour: This flour retains the bran and germ, adding fiber, vitamins, and minerals for a hearty flavor and texture.
Bread Flour: Enhances the bread’s structure, creating a light yet chewy crumb.
Flax Seeds: Known for their omega-3 fatty acids, flax seeds add subtle nuttiness and texture.
Sunflower Seeds: Contribute a light crunch, as well as vitamin E and heart-healthy fats.
Skim Dry Milk: Adds protein and tenderness to the loaf.
Honey: A natural sweetener that provides a mild sweetness, balancing the flavors.
Canola Oil: Keeps the bread soft and moist without overpowering the flavor.

These ingredients combine to create a bread that’s both delicious and satisfying.

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Country Harvest Bread

Enjoy a delicious loaf of Country Harvest Bread with this easy, step-by-step bread machine recipe.

Course Breads

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 3

Servings 14

Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Ingredients

1 ¼ cups water
¼ cup skim dry milk
1 ½ teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 cup whole wheat flour
2 ¼ cups bread flour
¼ cup flax seeds
2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
1 ¾ teaspoons yeast

Instructions

In the bread pan of your machine, measure the water, skim dry milk, salt, honey, and canola oil.
Add both flours, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, and yeast to the pan.
Select the whole wheat cycle for a 1 ½ pound loaf.
Allow the bread machine to run its course, which will take approximately 55 minutes.
Once baked, remove the loaf from the machine and let it cool before slicing.
Enjoy your freshly baked Country Harvest Bread!

Nutritional Benefits of Country Harvest Bread

Country Harvest Bread is packed with nutrients, making it a smart choice for a balanced diet. Here’s a closer look at its nutritional profile:

Whole Wheat Flour: Retains more nutrients than refined flour, providing fiber, B vitamins, magnesium, and manganese, which support energy metabolism and bone health.
Flax Seeds: A powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, which are associated with heart health and anti-inflammatory benefits. They also contain lignans, which have antioxidant properties.
Sunflower Seeds: Rich in vitamin E and selenium, both antioxidants that help protect cells from damage. They also offer healthy fats and a small amount of protein.
Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness without refined sugars, along with trace antioxidants and minerals.

Country Harvest Bread also provides a moderate amount of protein, which makes it a filling choice for any meal.

Creative Serving Ideas for Country Harvest Bread

One of the best things about Country Harvest Bread is its versatility. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

Breakfast Toast: Spread with almond butter and sliced bananas, or avocado with a sprinkle of chia seeds.
Gourmet Sandwiches: Use for classic deli sandwiches or a vegetarian option with hummus, cucumbers, and roasted peppers.
Soup Companion: Pair it with soups like creamy tomato basil or hearty vegetable for a comforting meal.
Savory or Sweet Bruschetta: Top slices with fresh tomatoes and basil for a savory snack, or ricotta and honey for something sweet.
Homemade Croutons: Dice leftover bread, toss with olive oil and herbs, and bake for crunchy croutons.

Chef Tips for Perfect Country Harvest Bread

To ensure your Country Harvest Bread comes out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:

Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active to ensure a good rise.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Start with room-temperature water and honey, which helps activate the yeast and produces a consistent dough.
Adjust Dough Consistency: After kneading begins, check the dough; it should form a smooth ball. If it’s too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.
Add Seeds Gradually: Sprinkle seeds in gradually during kneading to ensure they’re evenly distributed without overloading one area.
Substitute Sweeteners: For a twist, try molasses or maple syrup in place of honey for a richer flavor.

Food Safety Tips

To store your homemade Country Harvest Bread, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. To freeze, slice the bread first and place slices in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can thaw individual pieces as needed without having to defrost the entire loaf.

Why You Should Try Making Country Harvest Bread

With a bread machine, creating Country Harvest Bread is incredibly easy. Not only does it bring the satisfaction of homemade bread, but it also fills your home with the inviting aroma of baking. You can feel good knowing exactly what’s in your bread, with no added preservatives or artificial ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to bread-making, this recipe allows you to enjoy a wholesome, rustic loaf with minimal effort.

Conclusion

Country Harvest Bread is more than just a loaf; it’s a connection to culinary traditions and a celebration of simple, nourishing ingredients. With its history rooted in traditional European bread-making, it’s a comforting reminder of the past brought into the convenience of the present. So fire up your bread machine, gather your ingredients, and embark on the rewarding experience of making Country Harvest Bread at home. Every slice is a reminder of the joy that homemade goodness brings.