If you are out on your boat for extended periods, you will know that bread, especially fresh “Bread On Board,” can be a challenge. First, it doesn’t last that long in the salt air and grows mould quickly – even in an airtight container stowed in the microwave. I prefer to keep mine in the freezer, but it takes up valuable real estate.
To keep bread fresh on your boat, it’s crucial to understand the environmental challenges of boating. The humidity and saltiness of the air can cause bread to spoil faster than you might expect. This is why many boaters, including myself, have experimented with various methods of preserving bread. For example, wrapping bread tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container can help reduce exposure to air and moisture, further extending its freshness.
However, one of the best ways to get fresh bread is to use a compact bread maker! A home-based bread maker will produce a 2 or 3-pound loaf, whereas a compact or mini version makes a 1 or 1.5-pound loaf. It is convenient and can be a fun way to experiment with different flavours and types of bread. For instance, adding ingredients like herbs, cheese, or even spices can elevate a simple loaf into something extraordinary. While I often use the express cycle for quick results at anchor, I also enjoy setting aside time for longer cycles for more complex bread, such as sourdough or multigrain, which develop richer flavours and textures.
When choosing your bread maker, consider looking for features that suit your needs. Some models offer gluten-free options, which can benefit those with dietary restrictions. Moreover, experimenting with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rye, can produce various health benefits and flavours. Remember that the choice between rapid-rise and active dry yeast can significantly affect your bread’s texture and rise, so it may be worth trying both to see which aligns best with your taste preferences.
Another critical consideration when choosing a bread maker is the power-saving function. If the power drops or you switch from shore or generator power to inverter, the bread machine will stop. If there is no power-save function, the bread will start over from the beginning of the cycle and be ruined. Several machines have a three to fifteen-minute power save phase.
Food storage containers play a critical role in maintaining the quality of your ingredients while on board. Investing in a durable and efficient set can save you time and hassle. Consider containers that are not just stackable but also labelled for easy identification. This can make meal prep much smoother, especially when working with multiple ingredients. Additionally, clear containers allow you to quickly check how much of each item you have left, preventing unnecessary trips to the store. I purchased a set of Chef’s Path Food Storage Containers (the seven-piece set). It was one of the only sets I could find with labels and a pen! They are stackable and fit perfectly in the cupboard.
Perfect for boaters, these stackable, airtight, and clear canisters keep food fresh, prevent spills, and maximize limited galley space while making it easy to see when supplies are running low—ensuring you're always stocked for your next galley adventure.
The versatility of a bread maker cannot be overstated. Besides baking bread, you can also use it to whip up dough for various other dishes. For instance, making pizza dough can turn a simple dinner into a fun family night where everyone creates individual pizzas. Similarly, preparing dough for cinnamon rolls or dinner rolls can enhance your onboard dining experience, allowing you to serve warm, homemade options that elevate your meals.
Additionally, it’s helpful to keep a well-stocked pantry while boating. Essentials such as flour, sugar, yeast, and a selection of spices can go a long way in ensuring you have the ingredients on hand to whip up delicious meals. Planning your meals and making a list can also save you from running out of key ingredients while on your trip.
A fellow boater turned me on to a compact bread maker, and I thought I would try it. I purchased the Briskind Compact Bread Maker, while she uses the Zojirushi Mini Bread Maker model. Both units offer an express cycle that makes a one-pound loaf of bread in one hour. The bread isn’t as airy as the three-hour cycle, but when I am at anchor and concerned about battery power, it is an excellent option for making “Bread On Board.”
Perfect for boaters, the Briskind 19-in-1 bread maker offers a compact, efficient design with customizable settings for fresh bread, jam, and yogurt, featuring a 15-hour delay timer, a 15-minute power failure backup that resumes where it left off after a power surge, and smart temperature control for perfectly baked loaves every time.
Perfect for boaters, this compact programmable breadmaker bakes 1-pound loaves, cookie dough, and fresh jams with a quick-bake cycle, 13-hour delay timer, and power-save function that resumes baking after a power surge, ensuring fresh bread without restarting the process.
There are many great bread recipes, but the essential ingredients are flour, water, sugar/honey, oil, a dash of salt, and yeast. Note that if you use the express setting, you must use rapid-rise yeast, whereas the three-hour cycle uses active dry yeast.
Here’s a basic recipe for delicious homemade bread you can try in your bread maker. The recipe includes variations for different flavours, allowing you to customize it. The possibilities are endless, whether you want to add herbs for a savoury touch or raisins for a sweet taste. Always remember to adjust the water content based on the humidity of your environment, as this can significantly affect the outcome of your bread.
Basic Bread Machine Boat Bread
Equipment
- 1 Bread Machine – Express bake cycle uses less battery power if you are at anchor
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 cups flour
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey
- 1/4 cup vegetable or olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 packet bread machine yeast (rapid for express bake or active for basic)
Instructions
- Pour the water into the bread machine pan first
- Add the dry ingredients
- Make a small indent in the top of the dry ingredients for the yeast – don't let it touch the water
- Select the basic or express bake setting
- Remove loaf from the machine after the cycle is done; cool in the pan for 5 minutes before turning it out onto a rack to cool completely
This post contains affiliate links. Products can also be viewed on my Amazon Storefront.
