Black-Eyed Peas and Bacon Bread

A hearty, flavorful yeast bread made with black-eyed peas and bacon.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 (0.25-ounce) packet active dry yeast, or 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
2 1/4 cups all-purpose or bread flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup bran flakes
2 tablespoons wheat germ
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup black eyed peas, rinsed and well-drained

Cooking Directions:

1. Dissolve yeast in warm water; set aside.
2. In a bowl combine ginger, sugar, flour, whole wheat flour, bran, wheat germ, white pepper, bacon bits, dried onion flakes, and oil. Add the yeast mixture and knead until smooth and satiny, about 10 minutes. Knead in black eyed peas (drained). Allow to rise, covered, in a warm place for 2 hours.
3. Punch down; place in a greased loaf pan, and allow to rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.
4. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Makes 1 loaf.