Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Add the warm water and stir using a wooden spoon or spatula until you have a shaggy dough. The goal isn’t perfection in texture but rather ensuring all ingredients are combined.
First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it sit at room temperature, away from drafts, for 12-18 hours. This slow rise is crucial for developing flavor and texture without the need for kneading.
Shape the Dough: After the rise, the dough will be bubbly and doubled in size. Place it on a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into a ball. Don’t worry about getting it perfectly smooth; a rustic look is part of its charm.
Preheat the Oven and Dutch Oven: Place a Dutch oven with its lid in your oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C). The pot mimics a professional baker’s oven, trapping steam and giving the bread a crispy crust.
Bake: Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from your oven. Place the dough inside, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to brown the crust.
Cool and Enjoy: Once baked to golden perfection, remove the bread from the Dutch oven. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing to allow the interior to set properly.
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