Rustic Homemade Bread
This rustic homemade bread recipe yields a crusty, golden loaf with a soft and airy interior. Perfect for dipping in olive oil, slathering with butter, or pairing with hearty soups and stews. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, it's a go-to recipe for all bread lovers!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
Instructions
Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
Let it Rise:
- Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 8-12 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape and Preheat:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a ball. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven (or baking sheet) inside to heat up.
Bake the Bread:
- Carefully place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Flour Variations: You can use bread flour or whole wheat flour for different textures and flavors.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Customization: Add herbs, seeds, or cheese to the dough for extra flavor.