Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and yeast. Add warm water gradually and stir with a spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
- Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for about 40-45 minutes until it doubles in size.
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a heavy oven-safe Dutch oven or pot with a lid inside to heat for 30 minutes.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface, shape into a round loaf, and place on parchment paper. Carefully lift into the preheated Dutch oven.
- Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
- Remove from oven, transfer to a wire rack, and cool for at least 15 minutes. Slice and enjoy with your favorite spreads or accompaniments.
Notes
- Use high-protein bread flour for a stronger structure.
- Ensure water is warm but not hot to activate yeast effectively.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal fermentation.
- Preheat your baking vessel thoroughly for the best crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/12 loaf)
- Calories: 150 Kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg