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Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add 3 cups of flour and 2 heaping teaspoons of salt. Mix gently to combine.
Add Yeast:
Stir in 2 teaspoons of dry yeast into the flour mixture.
Add Warm Water:
Fill a cup with very warm water. Pour 1 cup into the flour mixture and stir to dissolve the yeast.
Add another half cup of warm water, adjusting as necessary to achieve a dough that is not too thick or too runny.
Mix the Dough:
Use a silicone spoon to mix until the dough comes together. If it’s too thick, add a little more water.
Let the Dough Rise:
Cover the bowl with a cloth or plastic wrap. You can let it rise:
In the refrigerator overnight
At room temperature for about 3 hours
In a preheated oven at 30°C (86°F) for 1 hour.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) along with a pot and lid (cast iron or oven-safe pot).
Shape the Dough:
Once risen, fold the dough gently and prepare to transfer it.
Transfer to Pot:
Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Sprinkle a little flour on the bottom, then place the dough inside. Sprinkle a bit more flour on top.
Bake with Lid:
Cover the pot with the lid and bake for 45 minutes.
Finish Baking:
After 45 minutes, remove the lid and lower the oven temperature to 200°C (392°F). Bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until the bread is golden and crusty.
Cool and Slice:
Once done, remove the bread from the pot and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy with butter, spreads, or alongside soups and salads.
Perfect for barbecues or as a quick snack.
Cooking Tips:
Make sure the pot is very hot before adding the dough for the best crust.
Experiment with adding herbs or seeds to the dough for extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, this bread is easy and quick to prepare.
Homemade Goodness: No preservatives or additives, just wholesome bread.
Storage:
Room Temperature: Store in a bread bag for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
Yes, but the texture may be denser.
What if I don’t have dry yeast?
You can use fresh yeast, but the amount will differ (generally about 3 times more).
Can I add seeds or herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorites.
How do I know when the bread is done?
It should be golden brown, and tapping the bottom should sound hollow.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.
Can I make this bread without a pot?
You can bake it on a baking sheet, but the crust may not be as crunchy.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover bread?
Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to restore crispness.
How can I make this bread more flavorful?
Add garlic powder, cheese, or olives for added flavor.
Can I make this bread in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and bake it fresh the next day.
What can I serve with this bread?
It pairs well with soups, salads, and various spreads.
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