This recipe offers a simple yet delightful way to make rustic artisan bread at home, perfect for any occasion.
Combine the warm water and yeast in a large mixing bowl, stirring gently to dissolve.
Ensure the water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
Add the salt and flour to the bowl, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Mix until no dry flour remains, but avoid overmixing.
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 2 hours.
Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area for optimal rising.
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking sheet inside to heat.
Preheating the baking sheet helps achieve a crisp crust.
Shape the dough into a round loaf on a floured surface and place it on parchment paper.
Use floured hands to prevent sticking while shaping.
Transfer the dough on the parchment paper to the preheated baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
For a golden crust, you can brush the dough with water before baking.
Remove the bread from the oven and cool on a cooling rack before slicing.
Allowing the bread to cool prevents it from becoming gummy when sliced.