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Homemade Simple Italian Bread

A golden brown loaf of crusty Italian bread cooling on a wire rack.

 

Yields: 1 large loaf Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 40 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour + more for dusting

  • 1 tsp sea salt

  • 1 ½  cups warm water

  • 2 tsp instant yeast (or active dry yeast)

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast. Mix well to combine.

  2. Add Water: Pour in warm water and mix until a soft dough forms. It's okay if it's slightly sticky.

  3. First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and a tea towel. Let the dough rise at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.

  4. Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface. Gently turn out the dough onto the floured surface. With floured hands, shape the dough into a round ball. Avoid excessive handling.

  5. Score the Loaf: Using a sharp knife, lightly score an "X" on the top of the loaf, or make a few shallow cuts.

  6. Prepare Dutch Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with the Dutch oven inside for at least 45 minutes.

  7. Bake: Carefully place the shaped dough directly into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.

  8. Uncover and Finish: Remove the lid and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

  9. Cool: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This will help maintain its crispiness.

Tips & Variations:

  • For a larger loaf: Use the "Original Large Loaf Recipe" ingredients and baking time.

  • Using a Pizza Stone: If you prefer to use a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven while it heats up. Bake the bread directly on the hot stone for 30-45 minutes, or until golden brown.

  • Steam Injection: For extra crispiness, place a small pan filled with water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking.

No-Knead Bread: Simple Magic in the Kitchen

There's a certain magic in creating something delicious from just a few simple ingredients. And when it comes to baking, few things are as satisfying as making your own bread. But let's be honest, the thought of kneading dough can sometimes feel a bit daunting.

Enter: No-Knead Bread. This culinary marvel requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. The secret lies in a long, slow rise, allowing the yeast to work its magic and develop complex flavors.

This recipe is incredibly simple. Just combine flour, salt, yeast, and warm water, and let the dough rise at room temperature for a few hours. The result? A beautiful, crusty loaf with a perfectly chewy interior.

Baking this bread is a truly rewarding experience. The anticipation as it bakes in the oven, the tantalizing aroma that fills the kitchen – it's a symphony of sights and smells. And the final result? A loaf of bread that's not only delicious but also a testament to the power of patience and the magic of simple ingredients.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Patience is Key: The long rise is crucial for developing the flavor and texture of the bread.

  • Don't Overwork the Dough: Resist the urge to overmix the dough. Gently fold it together and let the yeast do the work.

  • Experiment with Flavors: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for added flavor.

So, fellow dreamers, gather your ingredients and unleash your inner baker. This No-Knead Bread recipe is a testament to the magic of simple cooking.

P.S. Don't forget to share your bread-baking adventures with me on social media! I'd love to see your culinary creations. All of my socials can be found on my contact page!
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