Discover the magic of homemade bread without the hassle of kneading. This no-knead bread recipe is the perfect solution for busy home cooks who crave the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread. With minimal hands-on time and a simple technique, you can enjoy a crusty, flavorful loaf that rivals artisanal bakery breads.
Serves: 1 loaf
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 12-18 hours (including rising time)
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast or active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups (355ml) warm water
Cookware Needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Dutch oven or heavy-duty pot with lid
Directions:
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Stir to mix.
Step 2: Add the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
Step 3: After the long rise, the dough should be bubbly and doubled in size. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or heavy-duty pot with a lid inside to heat up.
Step 4: Gently transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf and place it in the preheated Dutch oven.
Step 5: Cover the pot and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Step 6: Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
This no-knead bread is a game-changer for busy home bakers. With minimal hands-on time and a simple technique, you can enjoy a crusty, artisanal-style loaf that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread. The long, slow rise results in a tender, chewy crumb and a beautifully crisp crust, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.
