Baking with Confidence: How to Choose the Best Flour for Your Recipe in Kenya

Baking is a fun and exciting activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. However, one of the most important aspects of baking is choosing the right type of flour. In Kenya, there are a variety of flours available in the market, and it can be confusing for beginners to know which one to choose. In this beginner's guide, we will discuss the different types of baking flours available in Kenya and how to choose the best one for your baking needs.

All-purpose Flour

All-purpose flour is the most commonly used flour in baking. It is a versatile flour that can be used for a wide range of recipes, including cakes, cookies, bread, and pastries. It is made from a blend of high-gluten hard wheat and low-gluten soft wheat, which gives it a moderate protein content of around 10-12%. All-purpose flour is readily available in most supermarkets and grocery stores in Kenya.

Cake Flour

Cake flour is a type of flour that is ideal for making light and fluffy cakes, as it produces a tender and delicate crumb. It is made from soft wheat and has a protein content of around 7-9%. Cake flour is usually bleached, which gives it a fine texture and a bright white colour. It is widely available in most supermarkets in Kenya.

Bread Flour

Bread flour is a high-protein flour that is perfect for making bread, pizza dough, and other baked goods that require a chewy texture. It is made from hard wheat and has a protein content of around 12-14%. Bread flour is usually unbleached, which gives it a slightly off-white colour and a coarser texture than other types of flour. It is also available in most supermarkets in Kenya.

Whole Wheat Flour

Whole wheat flour is a nutritious flour that is made from whole wheat grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. It has a high protein content of around 13% and is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Whole wheat flour is ideal for making bread, muffins, and other baked goods that have a nutty and slightly sweet flavour. It is readily available in most supermarkets and health food stores in Kenya.

Self-Rising Flour

Self-rising flour is a type of flour that has a leavening agent, such as baking powder or baking soda, already added to it. It is commonly used for making biscuits, pancakes, and quick bread, as it eliminates the need for separate leavening agents. Self-rising flour is not commonly found in Kenya, but it can be easily made at home by adding 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to one cup of all-purpose flour.

When choosing the best baking flour in Kenya, consider the recipe you are making and the texture you want to achieve. All-purpose flour is a good choice for most baking needs, but if you want a tender cake or chewy bread, choose cake or bread flour, respectively. If you are looking for a more nutritious option, consider using whole wheat flour. Finally, if you are making a recipe that calls for self-rising flour, you can easily make it at home.

In conclusion, choosing the best baking flour in Kenya is all about understanding the different types of flour and their properties. When considering your recipe and the desired texture, visit Maisha Flour Mills for more information on how you can choose the perfect flour for your baking needs and create delicious treats for yourself and your loved ones.