Shokupan Japanese Fluffy White Bread Recipe Japanese Milk Bread, Bread, Shokupan Recipe

Cover Gourmet Baking Shokupan (Japanese Milk Bread) with Poolish Method (1066x1600)

Table of Contents:

• What is Shokupan?
• Why is Shokupan so popular?
• What are the ingredients for Shokupan?
• How do you make Shokupan?
• What are some tips for making Shokupan?

What is Shokupan?

Shokupan is a type of Japanese bread that is soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet. It is made with milk, sugar, and flour, and is often used to make sandwiches or eaten as toast with butter and jam. The word "shokupan" comes from the Japanese words "shoku" (which means "meal") and "pan" (which means "bread").

Why is Shokupan so popular?

Shokupan has become increasingly popular in recent years because of its unique texture and flavor. It is softer and fluffier than most breads, which makes it perfect for sandwiches and toast. The slightly sweet taste also makes it a popular choice for breakfast or as a snack. Additionally, many people enjoy making shokupan at home because it is relatively easy to make and requires only a few ingredients.

What are the ingredients for Shokupan?

The ingredients for shokupan are relatively simple and include:

• 500g bread flour
• 80g sugar
• 8g salt
• 10g dry yeast
• 250ml milk
• 1 egg
• 50g unsalted butter (softened)

How do you make Shokupan?

Here is a step-by-step guide for making shokupan:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Add the egg and softened butter to the dough and mix well. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each part into a loaf and place them in greased loaf pans.
7. Cover the pans with a damp towel and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until it is golden brown.
9. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

What are some tips for making Shokupan?

Here are some tips for making the perfect shokupan:

• Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a softer and fluffier texture.
• Make sure the yeast is fresh and active. If it doesn't foam up when mixed with warm milk, it may be old or inactive.
• Knead the dough well to develop the gluten and create a smooth texture.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place, such as an oven with the light on, to help it rise faster.
• Use a sharp knife to make a shallow cut down the center of the dough before baking. This will help the bread rise evenly and prevent it from cracking.

Conclusion

Shokupan is a delicious and easy-to-make Japanese bread that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own. By following the simple recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can create your own homemade shokupan that is sure to impress your friends and family.