Seven Grain Bread

Seven Grain Bread

Several years ago I read an article in a Nursing Journal describing the deficiency of Niacin in Americans due to the lack of whole grains in diets. This is due to the grains that we do eat are so over processed. This article inspired me to search for ways to supplement the diets of my family. The recipe I offer today has been a favorite of several years. As a matter of fact, I wore out three bread machines over a period of several years making this bread. It is great toasted and creates such a wonderful aroma in the kitchen while it is baking or toasting. I had friends that would request a loaf from time to time and also when a special occasion arose or a pot luck and I would ask, "what would you like"? 

I might add a food store that sells bulk is the most economical place to buy the grains. Also I would line up several freezer bags, measure recipe amounts and freeze them in dividual packets. When I was ready to make the bread the grains were all measured and this saved time.

 Ingredients:  
1 1/4 cup warm water 
2 tablespoons honey 
1 package yeast 
4 teaspoons canola oil 
2 3/4 cup flour 
4 teaspoons gluten flour 
1/3 cup old fashioned rolled oats 
3/4 teaspoon salt 
1/4 cup shelled sunflower seeds 
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds 
1/4 cup sesame seeds 
2 tablespoons poppy seeds 
2 teaspoons flax seeds 
3/4 teaspoon fennel or anise seeds 

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 Directions: 
Dissolve the honey in the warm water and sprinkle yeast over top and stir in. In a bowl add the flour, rolled oats and gluten flour. 

When the yeast is proofed add to flour mixture along with canola oil. Mix until well combined and dough pulls away from sides of bowl and is satiny. Add grain combination and knead to distribute. Place in greased bowl and set in warm place to double in bulk. 

Knead and place in prepared loaf pan and when double in bulk bake at 400 degrees for 35 to 45 minutes until golden. Tap the loaf and when the loaf sounds hollow it is done. 

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 BREAD MACHINE METHOD: Place the ingredients in the machine in the order listed. Hit the "ON" button and return in 2 hours for a wonderful loaf of healthy bread.