TheBakingRecipes

Ingredients:

Metric:

• 500 g all-purpose flour
• 10 g salt
• 7 g instant yeast
• 350 ml warm water

Imperial:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water

Instructions:

1. Mix the Dough:
   In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead:
   Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
3. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Dough:
   Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a floured proofing basket.
5. Second Rise:
   Cover the dough and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
6. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). If you have a Dutch oven, place it inside to preheat.
7. Bake:
   If using a Dutch oven, carefully place the dough inside, cover, and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy. Without a Dutch oven, bake directly on the sheet for 30-35 minutes.
8. Cool:
   Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your warm, homemade bread! Let me know if you’d like more bread recipes or additional details.