Crusty French Bread Recipe

crusty french bread recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. This crusty French bread recipe is sure to fill your home with that irresistible scent and delight your taste buds with its crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the world of bread-making, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to create a delicious loaf of homemade bread.

If you’ve been craving the taste of authentic French bread but haven’t had the chance to visit a bakery, don’t worry – with this recipe, you can bring the flavors of France right to your own kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful loaf of crusty bread that’s perfect for enjoying on its own, slathered with butter, or used as the base for a variety of sandwiches and bruschetta.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp sugar
– Cornmeal (for dusting)

Instructions Step by Step:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour and salt to the bowl and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
6. Place the loaf on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
9. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips:

For a variation, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for added flavor. You can also sprinkle the top of the loaf with sea salt before baking for a salty crunch.

To store your crusty French bread, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place the bread in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a smear of butter, this crusty French bread is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of baking your own bread at home.

In conclusion, this crusty French bread recipe is a simple and satisfying way to create a delicious loaf of bread that will impress your family and friends. With just a few basic ingredients and some time to spare, you can enjoy the taste of freshly baked French bread whenever you like. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the flavors of France with this homemade bread recipe.