"mkr5000" > wrote in message
...
> I've always kneaded dough by hand but really don't ever do it enough.
>
> I've never owned a Kitchen aid mixer or a bread machine and I don't see
> how that dough hook attachment can actually knead dough.
>
> But then, I've never seen one in action.
>
> Does it really work?

The dough hook causes the dough to stretch and "flop" which forms the gluten
necessary in a comparatively short period
Yes it works - very well I might add.


>How about bread machines? And how do they compare?

The bottom of the container contains a small flat blade that rotates and
that causes the dough in the dough ball to move. The action of the rotating
blade form the gluten in small amounts at a time. this is why the initial
mix on a bread machine will take ( depending on the size) from 15 to 30
minutes.


The Kitchen Aid works much faster but takes more time and attention.
>
> What are my options for "automatic" dough kneading?

You have them both as far as home use is concerned.


--
Old Scoundrel

(AKA Dimitri)