He that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
1 Corinthians 9:10
This scripture is like the story of the Little Red Hen, with all the steps she takes to prepare a loaf of bread, while others want none of the work, only the end product. With hope, like bread, we have to labor in stages if we want to enjoy results.
To me, “plow in hope” can apply to anything I do. Clean the house with hope that it will make things easier for the family; Write with hope that my words will keep someone company; Study with hope that it will help me in my decisions and attitudes; Make traditions with hope that they will bind our family together…
Here is the recipe for my favorite whole wheat bread, which requires you to grind wheat and wait for 3 risings of the dough. It’s worth every step. It is spongy light goodness. I hope you will try it. Now, “Bake in hope!”
Richard’s Whole Wheat Bread
Preparation: Grind 3 c. hard white wheat with a grain mill and set aside.
Place the following in a stand mixing bowl and mix with a regular paddle attachment:
1 1/2 T. yeast
2 c. warm water
1 2/3 c. whole wheat flour
1/3 c. gluten (Bob’s Red Mill Vital Wheat Gluten is sold at Kruger stores.)
Mix and let sit until double. (15-30 min)
After the dough has doubled in size, change to a dough hook and add the following to the mixture, gradually incorporating the flour:
1/4 c. vegetable oil
1/2 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 t. salt
3-4 c whole wheat flour, add until dough mostly cleans the sides of the bowl as it is mixed.
Once dough is uniform and cleans the sides of the bowl during mixing, continue to mix for about 5 minutes with a stand mixer. Place in an oiled bowl, cover in plastic, and let rise until double (around 30 minutes).
After rising in bowl, punch down dough and shape into 2 oiled pans. Cover with oiled plastic wrap and let rise again until double (20-30 minutes). Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Makes 2 regular size loaves.
To make mini loaves, shape dough into 6 or 7 oiled mini pans, let rise until double, and bake for 20-22 minutes.