I use a bread machine because I can no longer knead the dough by hand. So
it is very much worth it to me. When I am having a good day I also have
the option of using my Kitchen Aid mixer to make bread. I also use my food
processor to make bread. Each method produces a different textured bread
from the same recipe. But each is just as good to me. Maybe I am not as
discerning as some people about their breads. I know that I enjoy bread
and will use any method available that I can to make it. I do like the
convenience of making it in the bread machine because I don't have to come
down every few hours to do something to it. I do touch it when I am using
a bread machine. I have no problem with lifting the lid and handling the
dough. I enjoy the feel of the dough at various stages and do
window-paning and touching a couple of times at least for each loaf. Don't
be afraid to do this. I also keep the lid up to make sure that the
liquid/dry ingredients are the right proportions ... I poke at it and when
it reaches the right feeling to my fingertip then I close the lid and don't
worry about it anymore.
Reggie