How to activate fresh yeast in simple steps

Fresh yeast is a key ingredient in bread and other doughs, but to achieve the best results, it is essential to activate it correctly. Below, I present a simple and practical process to activate fresh yeast, allowing your preparations to rise efficiently and deliciously.

What is fresh yeast?

Fresh yeast is a living microorganism that plays a crucial role in the fermentation of doughs. It comes in blocks and is highly perishable. Activating fresh yeast correctly ensures that it is alive and ready to work, leading to better results in your kitchen.

Steps to activate fresh yeast

1. Gather the necessary ingredients

Before you start, make sure you have the following items:

• Fresh yeast: check that it is in good condition, without signs of mold or a dry texture.
• Warm water: it should be between 30 and 35 degrees Celsius. If the water is too hot, it could kill the yeast.
• Sugar: this ingredient is not strictly necessary, but it helps to speed up the activation process.

2. Cut the yeast

Take the amount of fresh yeast you need from its container. Typically, between 15 to 25 grams is used for one kilogram of flour. Cut the yeast into small pieces to facilitate its dissolution.

3. Mix with water

Place the cut yeast into a container. Pour the warm water over the yeast and add a teaspoon of sugar (optional). Gently stir with a spoon to dissolve the yeast and ensure that all pieces come in contact with the water.

4. Let it rest

Once you have mixed the yeast well with the water, cover the container with a clean cloth. Let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes in a warm place. During this time, you will notice how the mixture starts to bubble and increase in size, indicating that the yeast is active.

5. Check the activation

After resting, check the mixture. You should notice that a thick foam has formed on the surface. This is a clear sign that the yeast is active and ready to be used in your recipe.

Additional tips

• Storage: If you do not plan to use all the fresh yeast, you can store it in the refrigerator. Make sure to wrap it well so that it doesn’t dry out.
• Immediate use: It is recommended to use the activated yeast immediately after this process, as its effectiveness can decrease over time.

Activating fresh yeast is an essential step to ensure success in baking and other recipes that require fermentation. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious breads, pizzas, and many other dishes.

For more tips and news related to cooking and gastronomy, I invite you to keep reading my blog. Discover more about this and other interesting topics!