This Artisan Bread is perfect for those who love the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread with a crisp crust and soft interior. The simple ingredients and straightforward process make it easy for anyone to bake at home, with results that rival bakery-quality loaves. Whether you enjoy it with butter, for sandwiches, or with soups, this versatile bread will be a staple in your kitchen.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Baking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 70 minutes
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 800g wheat flour (about 6 1/2 cups)
- 7g dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 25g salt (1 1/2 tsp)
Wet Ingredients:
- 540g water (about 2 1/4 cups)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 800g flour, 7g yeast, and 25g salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add 540g water while mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands. Stir until a rough, sticky dough forms. Adjust with more flour or water if necessary.
2. Let the Dough Rest:
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow the dough to rest in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Fold the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Fold the dough over itself three times to develop elasticity.
4. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F) and place a Dutch oven (or a similar heavy pot with a lid) inside to preheat.
- Carefully place the dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
5. Cool the Bread:
- Transfer the baked bread to a wire rack and let it cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
- With spreads: Serve with butter, jam, or honey.
- For sandwiches: Use it for hearty sandwiches.
- With soups or stews: Perfect for dipping in soups or stews.
- Toast: Top with avocado, cheese, or any of your favorite toppings.
Cooking Tips:
- Measuring ingredients: For the best results, use a kitchen scale to measure flour and water accurately.
- Water temperature: Use room temperature or slightly warm water to activate the yeast.
- Dutch oven alternatives: If you don’t have a Dutch oven, use any ovenproof pot with a lid or a covered baking dish.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Whole grains: Using whole wheat flour boosts fiber content and provides essential nutrients.
- Low-fat: This recipe is low in fat, making it a healthy addition to your meals.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarian diets.
- No added sugar: Contains no added sugars.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approx. 12 Slices Per Loaf):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
Storage:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze slices for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from the freezer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples for an easy baking experience.
- Delicious results: Achieves a perfect crispy crust and soft interior.
- Versatile: Works great for sandwiches, toast, or dipping.
- Homemade goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of baking fresh bread.
Conclusion:
This Artisan Bread recipe delivers a deliciously crispy crust and a soft, airy interior with minimal effort. Its simplicity and straightforward technique make it a perfect choice for home bakers looking to enjoy freshly baked bread. With just a few essential ingredients, you can create a loaf that’s both satisfying and versatile. Enjoy the rich aroma and taste of homemade bread with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the water amount as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. - What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and the dough is in a warm, draft-free area. Cold environments or expired yeast can hinder rising. - How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be around 190°F (90°C). - Can I use a different type of yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast or instant yeast. Generally, 7g is the standard amount, but follow package instructions for conversions. - How can I get a softer crust?
For a softer crust, reduce the baking time or cover the bread with foil during the last few minutes of baking. - Can I add ingredients to the dough?
Yes! Add herbs, cheese, or other mix-ins like olives or seeds for added flavor. - What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
Add a small amount of flour until the dough is easier to handle, but avoid adding too much as this can make the bread dense. - Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?
Yes, you can use a covered ovenproof pot or even cover a baking dish with foil. - How do I store leftover bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or freeze for longer storage. - Can I use warm water instead of room temperature water?
Yes, slightly warm water is fine, but avoid using hot water as it can kill the yeast.