Summary:
Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day by Jeff Hertzberg is a game-changing book that revolutionizes home baking with its simple and efficient approach.
Book Genre:
Cookbook, Non-fiction
Main Topic:
The book shares a new method of baking artisan bread at home that requires only 5 minutes of active preparation time.
Key Ideas:
- The concept of “no-knead” bread, where the dough is mixed and stored in the fridge for several days, allowing for better flavor development.
- The use of high moisture dough, which eliminates the need for continuous kneading and shaping.
- Adjustable recipes that can be doubled or halved depending on the amount of bread needed.
- A wide range of dough techniques and tips for different types of bread, including gluten-free and whole grain options.
Main Parts of the Book:
- Introduction: Explains the concept of Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day and the basic tools needed for making it at home.
- Master Recipe: The base recipe for the master dough, which can be adapted for different types of bread.
- Dough Storage and Handling Techniques: Tips and techniques for storing, handling, and shaping the dough.
- Recipes: A variety of recipes for different types of bread, including pizza, rolls, and pastries.
- Troubleshooting: Common problems and solutions for baking bread at home.
Key Takeaways:
- Bread baking can be simple, quick, and convenient with the right techniques.
- High moisture and no-knead dough method results in better flavor and texture of bread.
- Recipes can easily be adjusted and adapted to personal preferences.
- The book offers a wide range of recipes and tips for different types of bread, allowing for experimentation and creativity in the kitchen.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Jeff Hertzberg is a physician with a passion for bread making. He became interested in home baking after being dissatisfied with store-bought bread and not having the time to make traditional recipes. With the help of co-author Zoë François, a pastry chef and baker, Hertzberg developed the Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day method. He has since written several other successful books on the subject and has become a popular figure in the bread-making community.
Target Audience:
This book is suitable for anyone interested in baking their own bread at home, regardless of their experience level. It is particularly useful for those with busy schedules who want to enjoy fresh, homemade bread without spending hours in the kitchen.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
The book was published by Thomas Dunne Books in November 2007.