Soup and Bread

Is there anything more comforting on a cold day? We having been having temps in the low 30's. It was actually snowing a few flakes this morning! This is what I remember November being like when I was a kid. It was winter - no 70 degree days like we have been having the past few years.

Anyway, I had planned to make the Samosa Soup that Krys had sent me awhile back. Then I saw that Diann had made the same thing this week! The recipe she printed is very similar to what I have. It is delicious, although I don't think it tastes like samosas. Krys said she doubled the spices - that sounds like a good idea in retrospect (not the cayenne, though - I halved it and it was enough!)

I have seen "Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day" mentioned on a few blogs. I got it from the library and tried the standard loaf. The premise is to make a big batch of extra wet dough and store it in the fridge for a couple of weeks, breaking off pieces and baking as you need. You really can mix up the dough quickly, and on baking day all you have to do is shape it (also very fast). Of course there is still rising and resting time. But if you fit it into your schedule when you are just hanging out anyway, it can work. I think this book will go on my wish list!

The dough rising.........

Shaped loaves resting.........

The finished loaves of ciabatta. Nice crust, and nice airy crumb.

I also made a baguette from the same dough. French and Italian bread from the same dough? I don't know if it's authentic, but it sure tastes good!