Step 1

Mix 500g strong white flour, 2 tsp salt and a 7g sachet of fast-action yeast in a large bowl.

Step 2

Make a well in the centre, then add 3 tbsp olive oil and 300ml water, and mix well. If the dough seems a little stiff, add another 1-2 tbsp water and mix well.

Step 3

Tip onto a lightly floured work surface and knead for around 10 mins.

Step 4

Once the dough is satin-smooth, place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with cling film. Leave to rise for 1 hour until doubled in size or place in the fridge overnight.

Step 5

Line a baking tray with baking parchment. Knock back the dough (punch the air out and pull the dough in on itself) then gently mould the dough into a ball.

Step 6

Place it on the baking parchment to prove for a further hour until doubled in size.

Step 7

Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas 7.

Step 8

Dust the loaf with some extra flour and cut a cross about 6cm long into the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.

Step 9

Bake for 25-30 mins until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath. Cool on a wire rack.