Excellent Graham Bread is a traditional and wholesome bread recipe that dates back to the late 19th century. This recipe gained popularity during a time when graham flour, a coarsely ground whole wheat flour, was promoted for its health benefits. The use of graham flour, along with other simple and natural ingredients, makes this bread not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of graham flour, melted Crisco, sour milk, and a touch of sugar creates a hearty and slightly sweet flavor that has stood the test of time.

In the mid-19th century, a prominent figure named Sylvester Graham, a Presbyterian minister, advocated for a healthful lifestyle that included a diet centered around whole grains. He believed that refined flour, which was commonly used at the time, was responsible for many health issues. Graham flour, named after him, was coarsely ground and retained more nutrients compared to refined flour.

Sylvester Graham’s principles were the inspiration behind the creation of graham bread. The recipe was developed to align with his philosophy of using whole grains and natural ingredients. The result was Excellent Graham Bread, a product that not only aligned with Graham’s healthful ideals but also satisfied the taste buds of many.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cupfuls graham flour
• 1/2 cupful flour
• 1 teaspoonful baking powder
• 1/4 cupful sugar
• 1/2 teaspoonful salt
• 1 teaspoonful baking soda
• 4 tablespoonfuls melted Crisco
• 1-1/2 cupfuls sour milk

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature.
2. In a large bowl, sift the graham flour and the half cup of regular flour together.
3. Add the baking powder, salt, sugar, and baking soda to the sifted flours. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly.
4. Incorporate the melted Crisco into the dry mixture. Crisco, a brand of shortening, adds moisture and tenderness to the bread.
5. Gradually pour in the sour milk, which adds a slight tanginess to the bread and helps with the leavening process.
6. Mix all the ingredients well until a consistent batter is formed. Ensure there are no lumps and everything is evenly distributed.
7. Grease and flour a cake tin to prevent the bread from sticking. This step is essential to ensure easy removal of the bread after baking.
8. Carefully pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured cake tin.
9. Place the cake tin in the preheated oven.
10. Bake the bread for about fifty minutes. Keep an eye on the bread’s color and use a toothpick or cake tester to check if it’s done. The tester should come out clean when inserted into the center of the bread.
11. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for a few minutes.
12. After cooling slightly, gently turn the tin over to release the bread. Place the bread on a wire rack to cool completely.

CONCLUSION:

Excellent Graham Bread is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple and wholesome recipes. Its history rooted in Sylvester Graham’s health principles gives it a unique significance, and its flavors and textures continue to captivate bread enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed as a slice for breakfast or as a snack, this bread embodies a legacy of nutritious eating that has transcended generations.