Kneading

Kneading

A person kneading dough by hand

Kneading is a process in the preparation of dough used in baking to mix the ingredients and add strength to the final product. It is a crucial step in the development of gluten, which gives bread its structure and texture. The process involves working the dough by hand or with a mixer to develop the gluten network, which is essential for trapping the gases produced by yeast during fermentation.

Process

Kneading can be done by hand or with a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook. When kneading by hand, the baker presses and stretches the dough, folding it over itself repeatedly. This action aligns the gluten strands, creating a strong and elastic dough. The process typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes by hand, depending on the type of dough and the desired texture.

When using a stand mixer, the dough hook mimics the action of hand kneading, reducing the time required to develop the gluten. The mixer should be set to a low speed to prevent overheating the dough, which can affect the yeast activity and the final rise of the bread.

Purpose

The primary purpose of kneading is to develop the gluten network within the dough. Gluten is a protein found in wheat flour that, when hydrated, forms a network of strands that give bread its chewy texture. Properly kneaded dough will be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. It should pass the "windowpane test," where a small piece of dough can be stretched thin enough to become translucent without tearing.

Techniques

There are several techniques for kneading dough, each with its own advantages:

• Traditional Kneading: This involves pressing the dough with the heel of the hand, folding it over, and rotating it. This method is effective for most types of bread dough.

• Stretch and Fold: Often used for wetter doughs, this technique involves stretching the dough out and folding it over itself. It is repeated several times during the fermentation process to strengthen the dough without overworking it.

• Slap and Fold: Used for very wet doughs, this method involves slapping the dough onto a surface and folding it over itself. It is a vigorous technique that helps incorporate air and develop gluten quickly.

Kneading in Different Cultures

Kneading is a universal technique found in many cultures around the world. In Italy, kneading is essential for making traditional pasta and pizza doughs. In France, it is used to create the perfect baguette. Each culture has its own variations and techniques, but the fundamental principles of kneading remain the same.

Related pages

• Baking
• Bread
• Gluten
• Yeast
• Dough

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