I've been a fan of ABin5 for over a year now and have started on the new HBin5 though I'm reluctant to stray far from my favorite buttermilk dough in the first book....what's not to love from dough that will give you wonderful loaves of traditional and cinnamon raisin bread!
I haven't read all of the post here but did notice a mention of salt. I believe I read that Jeff and Zoe have reduced the salt in the new HBin5 book and as you chose to use less, they too suggest people use whatever amount they prefer.
I seldom use water any more, I went from the pizza stone and adding the water, to using a enamel covered Dutch oven, to simply using a couple of clay baking containers I bought from P.C. 15 or so years ago. One is standard loaf pan and one tall and round, similar to baking in a can …for a round loaf of bread. It is perfect for making small loaves to be used up in a couple of days. When I use the loaf pan I do two “balls” of dough and bake them side by side, perfect to keep one and share one without slicing a loaf in half.
And by all means, for all who can, buy the dough whisk here! I love my KitchenAid but I don't love cleaning it when I don't have to and it's been my experience that it's really not necessary with this dough. I find the large whisk perfect for mixing the dough and my smaller one gets its share of use with smaller batches of things like cookies, muffins, cupcakes, scones. They are two of the most often used tools in my kitchen...worth every penny!
ABin5 also has a terrific website and like everyone here at KAF, they are most generous in communicating with those who post on their site. It amazes me to find sites like these two...these are what make the internet better than I would have ever dreamed it would be. From all of the talented bakers here to Jeff and Zoe at ABin5 and even world renowned Dorie Greenspan...it's truly amazing. I can't speak for the other internet communities but the baking world is blessed by all of these people!
So true, LaJuana - I've found the online baking community to be a generous, warm and friendly group, all in all. Thanks for joining in the fun! PJH
December 2, 2009 at 5:30pm