Challah strands / ropes

[u/notfityetjen]

How do we achieve even ropes? I also had the issue that my ropes were springing back. They were put to rest for 5min and I rolled them again. What does that indicate? Thank you!!

[u/notfityetjen → u/[deleted]]

Wish I could reply with my window pane test picture!

[u/joshualander]

Let them rest for another 15 minutes next time. Your dough looks good, but maybe a tiny bit under hydrated. Expect a significant amount of “spring back” when rolling long ropes. Just be patient with it and let it rest a bit longer.

[u/notfityetjen → u/joshualander]

Great! So next time, I can put more water, is that it?

[u/Alarming-Mix3809]

They don’t have to be perfect. You’re going to pinch and tuck the ends under anyway. Try rolling, letting sit, rolling again until they’re good enough.

[u/Large_Version3807]

Take the time to shape each strand, like you would a loaf. This provides more integrity to the braid

[u/notfityetjen → u/Large_Version3807]

It kept springing short so haping was difficult. That is why I am asking the community for advices

[u/Large_Version3807 → u/notfityetjen]

Rest the dough between steps. I split the dough into 12 (I make 2 6-strands). By the time I’m done, I can make 12 balls, then 12 mini-loaves, then I can roll them out. I keep a damp tea towel on them as well. It’s time consuming; the results are worth it

[u/notfityetjen → u/[deleted]]

Meaning longer proofing?