Introduction:
This beautifully golden and crusty round loaf of bread, baked in a Dutch oven, is a simple yet impressive homemade treat. With a crisp exterior and a soft, airy interior, this no-knead bread is perfect for beginners or seasoned bakers looking for a convenient method to make bakery-quality bread at home. The Dutch oven creates a steamy environment that gives the bread its signature crispy crust and chewy texture. Enjoy this rustic bread with butter, soups, or sandwiches.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
Instructions:
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
- Slowly add the warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12-18 hours, until it has doubled in size and is bubbly.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Place your Dutch oven (with the lid) in the oven and preheat it to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes.
- Shape the Dough:
- Flour your hands and a work surface. Turn the dough out onto the surface and gently shape it into a round ball. Don’t overwork the dough.
- Let the dough rest while the oven finishes heating.
- Bake the Bread:
- Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven.
- Place the dough in the Dutch oven (you can use parchment paper for easy transfer).
- Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crusty.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy your rustic Dutch oven bread fresh, with a smear of butter, or as a side to your favorite dish!