HOMEMADE COUNTRY BREAD

Step 1

In a big bowl mix the flour, salt and sugar (optional) together. Add the yeast and mix. Pour gradually the water and stir using a spatula or a spoon until the flour is well incorporated and distributed. Take your time because the flour needs a couple of minutes to fully absorb the water. It is possible to need more water if the flour hasn’t been absorbed. Pour water gradually (no more than 1 tablespoon each time) until the dough is evenly sticky and shaggy. Don't rush. The dough should be neither too dry nor too runny.

Step 2

Cover the bowl with a wet towel or plastic wrap. Let sit at room temperature approximately 6 hours until it doubles its size. If time allows, cover the bowl, transfer to the fridge and let sit overnight (10-12 hours).

Step 3

Preheat the oven to 500 °F (260°C), with a rack in the lower third position, and place the covered pot(s)/baking pan(s) (with the lid on if there is one) in the center of the rack. Leave the pot(s)/pan(s) for half an hour and the Dutch oven/cast iron pot for up to one hour.

Step 4

Meanwhile, dust lightly your work surface with flour. Scrape the loose and sticky dough out of the bowl. With your floured hands or a spatula fold it over on itself 4-5 times. If you are going to make 2 loaves, use a knife and divide the dough into halves. Fold once more and lightly knead, just to roughly shape the loaf (or loaves). Until your oven-safe pot(s)/baking pan(s) is (are) heated, leave your loaf (or loaves) to raise some more on the bench.

Step 5

Put carefully the dough in the pot(s)/pan(s) and cover them. (Be extremely careful because the lids are super hot.) If there isn't a lid, put the dough in and cover the pot(s)/pan(s) with parchment paper or foil. Leave the lid on (or parchment paper or foil) for half an hour at 392°F/200°C. Then really carefully remove the cover and bake for another 15 minutes. Insert a sharp knife into the middle of the bread (all the way to the bottom). If it comes out with batter stuck to it, the bread needs more time, approximately 10 minutes. If it comes out dry, the bread is ready.

Step 6

Let your loaf or loaves cool completely on a rack, about 2 hours.