In bread making, yeast is one of the ingredients needed. What is yeast and what does it actually do? Yeast is a living microorganism produced from the fermentation process, known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Yeast is included in living things and can reproduce by dividing themselves. So, as long as there is food yeast will continue to multiply.
Then what is the function of yeast in making bread? Yeast can give aroma and flavor to bread, soften gluten with acids produced in yeast, and produce gas in dough by converting sugar into carbon dioxide. All the basic ingredients in bread must be measured correctly to get the desired bread.
What are the basic ingredients in bread making? In making bread that contains yeast, there are 5 mandatory ingredients, and 3 optional ingredients. Flour, yeast, sugar, salt and water are the ingredients that must be used in making leavened bread. While fat, milk, and bread improver are optional ingredients.
There are several types of yeast commonly used in bread making. Peekay pals need to know that each type of yeast has different properties so it needs different handling. So, it's good to get acquainted with the following 4 types of yeast, so that Peekay friends are not mistaken.
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As the name suggests, this type of wet yeast has a fairly high water content which results in it not being able to be stored for a long time, namely 2 to 3 weeks, if stored in the right way. Wet yeast should be stored at a temperature of 2 to 4 degrees Celsius.
Wet yeast is usually sold in the market in the form of box blocks. How to use it is by kneading it first, then mixing it into the bread dough. Or you can also cut it as needed, after which it is dissolved in milk or warm water.
This type of yeast is very different from wet yeast, from the name alone. Dry yeast is yeast that is in the form of small and dry granules. The advantage of this yeast is its long shelf life, which can last up to 6 months.
Storage is also easy, Peekay pals can store it in an airtight dry container. For how to use it, this yeast will function after being dissolved in warm water for 10 - 30 minutes.
Instant yeast is a type of yeast that is in the form of smaller granules than dry yeast. The main difference of this yeast is in its usage. We don't need to dissolve it in water, instant yeast can be directly mixed with flour and sugar. This instant yeast can last up to 24 months and can be stored at temperatures below 25°C in an airtight container once opened from its packaging.
Semi-dry yeast is a type of yeast made specifically for making frozen dough. It looks similar to instant dry yeast, with a moisture content of about 20%. Semi-dry yeast can withstand low temperatures, is stable in the freezing process, and can be frozen for preservation at -12°C to -18°C. Semi-dry yeast can be stored for 24 months, with storage conditions below -18°C.
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So those are the types of yeast that we can use Peekay friends. Each yeast has its own functions and advantages, so adjust according to your needs to get the desired results.
The types of yeast above can be found at Prambanan Kencana. There are various types of yeast from various world-renowned brands such as Angel, Haan, and Gloripan. Products that Peekay pals can find include Fresh Yeast, Instant Yeast, and Semi-Dry Yeast. For product details, Peekay friends can see here, or visit our official stores at Foodbay and Fingerland or contact WhatsApp PRB Care for product information and purchase.