Can you mix bread in a metal bowl?

It is generally safe to mix bread in metal bowl. Bread can indeed be mixed in metal bowls, and they are sometimes even preferred in certain recipes. Stainless steel mixing bowls are typically non-reactive and can easily withstand the handling and mixing of bread dough. However, a few precautions should be taken when using a metal bowl:

Temperature Concerns: Metal bowls conduct heat more efficiently than other materials. If the ingredients for your bread dough are too warm, especially when using active yeast, the dough may rise too quickly and compromise its texture. It is recommended to use cool ingredients, including slightly chilled water, when mixing bread dough in a metal bowl.

Leavening Time: Since the temperature can rise more rapidly in a metal bowl, it is essential to carefully monitor the leavening time of the dough. Watch out for signs of over-fermentation, such as a rapid rise or a dough that starts to deflate. Adjust your rise time accordingly to prevent the dough from overproofing.

Metal Reactivity: Although most stainless steel bowls are non-reactive, some older or low-quality metal bowls may contain traces of other metals like copper, which could react with certain ingredients in the dough and alter its taste. If you are concerned about reactivity, opt for a high-quality stainless steel or glass mixing bowl.

If you are using a recipe specific to a different type of bowl, adjust your techniques and ingredients as necessary to account for the heat transfer of the metal bowl.

In conclusion, while it is perfectly acceptable to use metal bowls for mixing bread, it is important to be aware of potential temperature and reactivity issues. With careful handling and monitoring of the dough's temperature, you can achieve great results when mixing bread in a metal bowl.