This excellent book introduces us to the authors’ innovative method of making bread using a Micro-Rise process or one of those “newfangled” bread machines. I have always been in awe of those who create delicious homemade bread. Having met with prior failures in this craft, I decided to experiment once again. After all, bread making is “in” and if all else fails I could purchase the “appliance of the 90’s,” the bread machine. I first purchased the so-called “bread bible” by James Beard, Beard on Bread and diligently read the master's words. I mentally baked several loaves before actually attempting to create the staff of life. I proofed the yeast, per Master Beard's instructions, and when it actually activated, I reveled in my success in this initial phase of the process. The kneading process was mysterious since I had no basis of comparision; however, I kneaded my creation until the therapeutic qualities of this process took leave and my muscles refused to respond. The dough had risen accordingly and resulted in a golden loaf of which I was quite proud. The entire process took about but how could one begrudge time spent when the entire house smelled so gloriously. The quality of the other attempts waivered and I began to contemplate the purchase of a bread machine when I saw an ad for a new book, Bread in Half the Time. The authors expertly address the subject with the promise of real yeast bread in only 90 minutes. They include a section with 68 recipes and new techniques for the bread machine, thus making the book a good investment even if you own a bread machine. I read the book with much excitement and prepared to make my first loaf by employing the innovative techniques. The authors have written a clear, concise book that conveniently provides complete instructions with each recipe. The preparation time for most types of bread is 90 minutes (versus the traditionally-made bread requiring 20 minutes to hand knead and 4 hours to rise). Kneading is completed in a food processor (or, for those who refuse to give up the therapeutic experience of hand kneading, instructions are provided); rising is accomplished in less than 1/2 hour in the microwave oven. The process will truly amaze you and as the bread bakes the smell will permeate your very soul. Praise to the authors for so thoroughly researching and testing their marvelous method of bread making and recipes. Their instructions are very comprehensive. As you handle the dough you can “feel” that the bread will be good. My first loaf using this rapid method was wonderful! I can boastfully state that it was one of the best breads I have ever tasted and it was created in the promised 90 minutes. If you are an experienced bread maker or a novice, you will be thrilled with this book. If you are contemplating the purchase of a bread machine you should first check out Bread in Half the Time.
