Back to basics

A domestic day today. I did three loads of washing and cooked lunch (beef stroganoff with the rest of the Spanish steak, yum) while S did a blitz on office and storeroom getting rid of unwanted junk. Spacious and tidy now! Although we still have V's artistic holes. He claims he'll come and do it on Wednesday ... don't hold your breath.

After lunch I decided to make some bread. I've given up on sourdough again because of the heat, and even my recent yeast-based efforts haven't been brilliant. So I decided to go for something foolproof -- a spelt tin loaf from Paul Hollywood's How to Bake. I was delighted with the result. It might look a bit dense, but the crumb is light and the crust tender. Plus it looks just like his photo in the book! I'd also forgotten how quick and easy breadmaking is when you don't faff about with starter or overnight poolish. Started at three, ready to eat by seven.

PS to Arachne: still using the yeast you sent me during lockdown!