What is Challah?
Challah is a traditional Jewish bread that is braided and served during Shabbat and other holidays. It is a fluffy, egg-enriched bread that is typically round or oblong in shape. It is made with a variety of flours and sweeteners like sugar, honey, or molasses. Challah is usually made with either three or six strands, each representing a different blessing. The six-braid challah is the most intricate of the three and requires more time and effort to make.
Ingredients Needed for 6-Braid Challah
Before you start braiding, you’ll need to make sure you have the proper ingredients. The ingredients for a 6-braid challah include:
• 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons of honey
• 2 large eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons of warm water
• Optional: 1 teaspoon of sugar and ¼ cup of raisins
You will also need a large bowl, a whisk, a wooden spoon, and a kitchen scale.
Steps to Make 6-Braid Challah
Making 6-braid challah can seem intimidating, but with these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be a pro in no time!
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, oil, honey, eggs, and egg yolks.
2. Mix the ingredients together with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.
3. Add the warm water and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise for 1-2 hours.
5. When the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal parts.
6. Roll each part into a long, thin strand and braid the strands together.
7. Place the braided challah on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush the top of the challah with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water).
9. If desired, sprinkle with sugar or raisins.
10. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
11. Let the challah cool before serving.
Tips for Making the Perfect 6-Braid Challah
Here are some tips for making a perfect 6-braid challah:
• Make sure the dough is well-kneaded before you let it rise.
• Don’t over-knead the dough or it will become tough.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place so it rises quickly.
• Be gentle when braiding the strands so they don’t break.
• Brush the top of the challah with an egg wash for a golden-brown crust.
• Let the challah cool completely before cutting into it.
Conclusion
Making a 6-braid challah may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and a little patience, you can make a beautiful and delicious braided bread. With these step-by-step instructions and tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!
