Few breads are as rich in tradition, symbolism, and beauty as Challah. With its distinctive braided appearance, golden crust, and slightly sweet flavor, Challah is more than just bread—it’s a cherished part of Jewish culture, celebrated at Shabbat dinners, holidays, and special occasions. At KitchenSupply, we have the kitchen tools you need to make this amazing bread for your next special occasion.
The History and Significance of Challah
The word challah means “portion of dough” and reflects a practice with deep roots in Jewish tradition, dating back centuries. On Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath) and major holidays, two loaves of challah are placed on the table, symbolizing the double portion of manna that fell from heaven for the Israelites during their journey in the desert.
Its braided form is not only beautiful but is commonly interpreted as representing unity, love, and the intertwining of daily life with spiritual meaning. The number of strands in a braid can vary—three, four, or even six—each offering its own significance in Jewish customs.
What Sets Challah Apart
Unlike other breads, Challah is enriched with eggs, sugar, and oil, which give it a soft texture, rich flavor, and signature golden hue. Traditionally, it is made without dairy, allowing it to be served alongside meat dishes according to kosher dietary laws.
The bread’s glossy finish comes from an egg wash brushed on before baking, and its tender crumb makes it perfect for everything from sandwiches to French toast.
A Reliable and Well-Loved Challah Recipe
Having the right tools can make all the difference when baking Challah—especially when it comes to measuring ingredients accurately. We recommend using an Escali kitchen scale to ensure precise flour, sugar, and oil measurements for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (480 g) bread flour (measure with Escali kitchen scale)
- 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs + 1 egg for egg wash
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm water
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add eggs, oil, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add flour, weighing with your Escali scale for accuracy, until a dough forms.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Divide into three equal portions (use scale for precision) and braid.
- Place braid on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Brush with beaten egg wash and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
The Joy of Baking with Precision
Baking is as much science as art, and precise measurement is key to success. Using an Escali kitchen scale helps eliminate guesswork, ensuring your Challah turns out light, fluffy, and flavorful—every time.
Whether you’re making Challah for a family gathering or simply to enjoy at home, the combination of tradition, taste, and the right tools will make it an unforgettable experience. Check out our inventory of Escali kitchen tools and scales at KitchenSupply, your source for high-quality kitchen products.