Question

How do I make dough without yeast?

Answer 1

Making dough without yeast is possible, and there are several alternatives you can use to create delicious yeast-free dough. Here are three common options:

1. Baking Powder Dough: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps dough rise. Here's a simple recipe for baking powder dough:

   Ingredients:

   • 2 cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 tablespoon baking powder
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt
   • 1/4 cup butter or vegetable oil
   • 3/4 cup milk or water (approximately)

   Instructions:

   1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   2. Add the butter or vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   3. Gradually add the milk or water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Adjust the liquid as needed; you may need slightly more or less.
   4. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
   5. Now you can use this dough for various recipes, like biscuits, flatbreads, or even as a pizza dough alternative.

2. Soda Bread Dough: Soda bread is a traditional Irish bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent. Here's a simple recipe for soda bread dough:

   Ingredients:

   • 4 cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 teaspoon baking soda
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • 1 and 3/4 cups buttermilk (or a mix of yogurt and milk)

   Instructions:

   1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or use parchment paper.
   2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
   3. Make a well in the center and pour in most of the buttermilk.
   4. Mix the ingredients together to form a soft dough. Add more buttermilk if needed, but be careful not to make it too sticky.
   5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead it briefly until smooth, then shape it into a round loaf.
   6. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet, and using a sharp knife, make a cross on top of the loaf.
   7. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

3. Yogurt-based Dough: Yogurt can act as a leavening agent due to its acidity. This dough is great for flatbreads and quick pizzas.

   Ingredients:

   • 2 cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 teaspoon baking powder
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works well too)

   Instructions:

   1. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   2. Add the yogurt and mix until a dough forms.
   3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
   4. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness and use it for flatbreads, wraps, or even a quick pizza crust.

Remember that dough made without yeast may have a slightly different texture and taste compared to traditional yeast dough. However, these yeast-free alternatives are perfect for when you're short on time or don't have yeast on hand. Enjoy your baking!