Simple No-Knead Artisan Bread

In recent years, the trend of no-knead artisan bread has taken the baking world by storm, captivating both novice and experienced bakers alike. This method allows anyone to create a delicious, crusty loaf without the traditional, labor-intensive kneading process. The appeal of no-knead bread lies in its simplicity and the delightful results that can be achieved with very little effort. For busy individuals and beginners who may feel intimidated by the idea of baking bread from scratch, this approach demystifies the process, making it accessible and enjoyable.

Discover the magic of no-knead artisan bread with this simple, engaging guide designed for home bakers! Learn how to create a crusty, flavorful loaf without the hassle of traditional kneading. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can craft a stunning loaf that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. This baking method makes it easy for everyone, from beginners to seasoned bakers, to enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread. Dive into the step-by-step process and start your baking adventure today!

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Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons salt

½ teaspoon instant yeast

1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing)

Extra flour for dusting

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast.

Pour in the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. The mixture will be wet and sticky; that's okay!

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest at room temperature (ideally between 70°F-75°F) for 12-18 hours. The dough should double in size and be bubbly on the surface.

After the resting period, sprinkle some flour on a clean counter or work surface. Gently turn the dough out onto the floured surface. Dust your hands with flour and fold the dough over itself a couple of times to shape it into a round ball.

Place the dough seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rest for about 1 hour, allowing it to rise again.

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a large Dutch oven (with its lid) inside to heat up.

Once the oven is ready, carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, lifting it with oven mitts. If using, drizzle a little olive oil inside to prevent sticking.

Grab the edges of the parchment paper and lift the dough, placing it carefully into the hot Dutch oven. You can also sprinkle a little flour on top for an aesthetic touch.

Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the bread is a deep golden brown and crusty on top.

Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the pot and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 13-18 hours (including rising) | 8-10 slices