INSTRUCTIONS:
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and instant yeast until well combined.
- Add the Water: Gradually pour the lukewarm water into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should be sticky and slightly tacky, but not too wet.
- Let the Dough Rest:Once the dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rest at room temperature for at least 12-18 hours, or overnight. During this time, the dough will ferment and develop flavor.
- Preheat the Oven: After the resting period, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with a lid into the oven to preheat as well. This will create a steamy environment for baking the bread, resulting in a crisp crust.
- Shape the Dough: Generously flour a work surface and your hands. Carefully transfer the dough onto the floured surface and gently shape it into a ball. You can use a bench scraper or your hands to help shape the dough.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped dough onto a piece of parchment paper and cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour while the oven preheats.
- Bake the Bread: Once the oven and Dutch oven are preheated, carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Using the parchment paper as a sling, transfer the risen dough into the Dutch oven. Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and place it back into the oven. Bake the bread covered for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the lid from the Dutch oven and continue baking the bread for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Allow the bread to cool for at least 1 hour to ensure the interior is fully set.
With its minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, the No-Knead Bread Recipe is a game-changer for home bakers of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you'll be amazed at the impressive results you can achieve with this simple recipe. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own crusty, artisan-style bread right at home