The ‘No-Knead’ Bread That Changed My Life
The ‘No-Knead’ Bread That Changed My Life
I was a skeptic. A bread-making purist who believed that kneading was an essential step in creating the perfect loaf. But then I tried this ‘no-knead’ bread recipe, and now I’m hooked. Fair warning: this recipe is dangerously easy!
The Secret to Effortless Artisan Bread
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just four ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create a loaf that rivals those from fancy bakeries. The key? Time and a Dutch oven.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (450g) bread flour (all-purpose works too)
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) warm water
Instructions
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Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl.
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Add the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. It’ll be wet and sticky – that’s perfect!
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Cover the bowl and let it rise for 2-3 hours at room temperature.
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Here’s where the magic happens: you can bake it now, or refrigerate for up to 3 days for even better flavor.
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When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
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Shape the dough into a rough ball on a floured surface.
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Place the dough on parchment paper and into the hot Dutch oven.
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Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 12 minutes until golden brown.
The Secret to That Perfect Crust
Remember that Dutch oven I mentioned? It’s the secret weapon for achieving that crispy, crackly crust. The enclosed pot creates a steamy environment, mimicking professional bakery ovens.
No Dutch oven? No problem! You can recreate the effect by placing a pan of hot water in the oven while your bread bakes on a regular baking sheet.
Why This Recipe Works
The wet, sticky dough might seem wrong, but it’s the key to those beautiful air pockets and chewy texture. The long rise time allows for flavor development, while the high heat and steam create that irresistible crust.
A Word of Caution
Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you may find yourself baking bread daily. Your house will constantly smell amazing, and your friends and family will beg for loaves. Consider yourself warned!
So go ahead, give it a try. This ‘no-knead’ bread might just change your life too. Happy baking!
