Have you ever dreamed of baking your own delicious French bread at home but felt intimidated by the process? Fear not! This foolproof French bread recipe will guide you through each step, resulting in a beautifully crusty loaf that will rival any bakery’s offerings. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll soon be enjoying the warm aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. Let’s get started on this delightful culinary adventure!
Title: Foolproof French Bread
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 2 tsp salt
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– Cornmeal (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast. Pour in the warm water and stir gently until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also knead the dough in a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
3. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven. Place a small heatproof dish on the oven floor.
5. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a baguette by rolling it into a long, thin loaf. Place the loaf on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet or a baker’s couche.
6. Using a sharp knife, make diagonal slashes across the top of the loaf. This will help the bread expand while baking.
7. Cover the shaped loaf with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
8. Once the dough has risen, carefully transfer it to the preheated baking stone or sheet in the oven. Quickly pour the boiling water into the small dish on the oven floor to create steam.
9. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crusty. You can also tap the bottom of the loaf – it should sound hollow when it’s done.
10. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your freshly baked foolproof French bread with butter, olive oil, or your favorite toppings!
In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a homemade French bread that will impress your family and friends. The crusty exterior and soft, chewy interior make this bread perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own. Feel free to experiment with different variations by adding herbs, cheeses, or seeds to the dough for a flavorful twist. So, put on your apron, preheat the oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your home with warmth and comfort. Happy baking!
