Yeast is an essential ingredient in baking, responsible for the fermentation process that helps dough rise and gives bread its fluffy texture. While most people are familiar with active dry yeast or instant yeast, there is another type of yeast known as yeast brick or fresh yeast. In this article, we will delve into the details of yeast brick, its characteristics, storage, and how to use it in your baking endeavors.
Yeast brick, also known as compressed yeast or cake yeast, is a moist form of yeast that comes in the shape of a brick or block. Unlike active dry yeast or instant yeast, yeast brick contains a higher moisture content, making it more perishable and requiring specific storage conditions.
Storing yeast brick properly is crucial to maintain its freshness and effectiveness. It is recommended to keep yeast brick in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. However, for longer shelf life, storing it in the refrigerator or freezer is advisable. Unopened yeast bricks can last up to two years, while opened bricks can be stored in the refrigerator for about four months or in the freezer for up to six months. It is important to note that once opened, yeast brick should be used within two weeks when stored in the refrigerator.
Now that we have covered the basics of yeast brick and its storage, let's discuss how to use it in your baking. To activate yeast brick, you will need to create a yeast starter. Here's a simple method:
1. Place three to four tablespoons of raisins in a clean glass jar.
2. Fill the jar three-fourths full with water.
3. Place the jar at a constant room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
4. Stir the mixture at least once a day for three to four days.
5. When bubbles start to form on the top and you detect a wine-like fermentation aroma, your yeast starter is ready.
Once your yeast starter is prepared, you can use it in your recipes as a substitute for active dry yeast or instant yeast. Remember that yeast brick is not as potent as other forms of yeast, so you may need to use more in your recipes. A general guideline is to use approximately 1.5 times the amount of yeast brick compared to active dry yeast or instant yeast.
When incorporating yeast brick into your dough, crumble it into small pieces and dissolve it in warm water or liquid called for in the recipe. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to activate before adding it to the rest of the ingredients. Proceed with your recipe as usual, allowing the dough to rise and bake accordingly.
Yeast brick may not be as readily available as other types of yeast, but it can add a unique flavor and texture to your bread and other baked goods. Its slightly sweet taste and moist texture can create a distinctively delicious product.
Yeast brick, also known as fresh yeast or compressed yeast, is a moist form of yeast that requires specific storage conditions to maintain its freshness. By following proper storage methods and creating a yeast starter, you can successfully use yeast brick in your baking endeavors. Experiment with this lesser-known yeast variety and enjoy the delicious results it brings to your homemade bread and pastries.
How Long Does A Brick Of Yeast Last?
A brick of yeast, also known as fresh yeast, has a limited shelf life. It is important to store it properly to maintain its freshness and effectiveness. Here is a breakdown of the storage and shelf life of fresh yeast:
1. Storage: Fresh yeast should be stored in a cool and dark place to preserve its quality. A pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight is a suitable location. It is crucial to protect fresh yeast from moisture, as it can cause the yeast to deteriorate quickly.
2. Shelf Life: The shelf life of a brick of yeast depends on whether it is unopened or opened and how it is stored. Here are the different scenarios:
– Unopened: If the brick of yeast is unopened, it can last for up to 2 years. As long as it remains sealed and stored in the appropriate conditions, it should maintain its effectiveness for a significant period.
– Opened, stored in the refrigerator: Once opened, fresh yeast should be tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container. When kept in the refrigerator, an opened brick of yeast can last for about 4 months. However, it is essential to note that its effectiveness may gradually decrease over time.
– Opened, stored in the freezer: If you have more fresh yeast than you can use within 4 months, it is advisable to store the excess in the freezer. When properly wrapped or stored in an airtight container, opened fresh yeast can last up to 6 months in the freezer. Freezing helps to preserve its effectiveness for a longer period.
– Opened, stored in the refrigerator (short-term use): If you plan to use the fresh yeast within a couple of weeks, storing it in the refrigerator is suitable. However, be aware that its effectiveness may decrease after the initial 4-month period.
It is important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of fresh yeast may gradually decline over time, even when stored correctly. Therefore, it is recommended to use it within the specified timeframes for the best results in your baking endeavors.
Conclusion
Yeast brick is a type of yeast that comes in the form of fresh yeast. It is different from active dry and instant yeast in terms of its storage and shelf life. Fresh yeast should be stored in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator, whereas active dry and instant yeast can be stored in the freezer for longer periods.
Fresh yeast has a shelf life of 2 years when unopened, but once opened, it should be used within 4 months if stored in the refrigerator and within 6 months if stored in the freezer. However, if you choose to store it in the refrigerator, it is recommended to use it within 2 weeks to maintain its freshness and effectiveness.
To make yeast brick at home, you can follow a simple process. Place three to four tablespoons of raisins in a jar and fill it three-fourths full with water. Keep the jar at a constant room temperature and stir it at least once a day for three to four days. When bubbles form on the top and you smell a wine-like fermentation, it indicates that you have successfully obtained yeast.
Yeast brick is a valuable ingredient in baking as it helps dough to rise by releasing carbon dioxide gas during fermentation. It is commonly used in bread making, where it interacts with sugar and flour to produce carbon dioxide, giving the bread its light and airy texture.
Yeast brick is a versatile and essential component in baking. Whether you choose to purchase it or make it at home, understanding its storage, shelf life, and preparation process will ensure that you have a fresh supply of yeast for all your baking needs.
