Bread baking has long been a cherished tradition in kitchens worldwide. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a complete beginner, this brilliant no-knead bread recipe will change the way you think about homemade bread. With minimal effort and only a few simple ingredients, you can create a crusty, flavorful loaf that rivals artisanal bakery bread. The secret to this recipe lies in its slow fermentation process, which enhances flavor and texture without requiring any kneading. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a foolproof way to make delicious homemade bread with ease.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 12–18 hours
- Baking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 13–19 hours
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon active dry yeast or instant yeast
- 1 ¾ cups (420ml) warm water (not hot)
- Extra flour for dusting
- Cornmeal or parchment paper for lining the baking surface
Instructions
1. Mixing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly. Pour in the warm water and use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should be sticky and somewhat rough in texture.
2. First Rise (Long Fermentation)
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature (about 70°F or 21°C) for at least 12 hours, preferably 18 hours. During this time, the yeast will slowly ferment the dough, developing complex flavors and a chewy texture.
3. Shaping the Dough
Once the dough has risen and is filled with bubbles, lightly flour a clean surface and gently turn the dough out onto it. Using floured hands, shape the dough into a round ball by folding the edges toward the center. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as you want to maintain the air bubbles created during fermentation.
4. Second Rise
Place the shaped dough onto a well-floured kitchen towel or parchment paper and cover it lightly. Let it rest for 30 to 60 minutes while preheating the oven.
5. Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a large, heavy-duty Dutch oven or a cast-iron pot inside the oven to heat for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures that the bread bakes with a crispy crust.
6. Baking the Bread
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven and place the dough inside, either on parchment paper or directly into the pot. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.
7. Cooling and Serving
Once the bread is baked, transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the interior to set properly and enhances the flavor.
This brilliant no-knead bread recipe is proof that you don’t need extensive baking experience or special equipment to create a high-quality loaf at home. The slow fermentation method brings out a rich, slightly tangy flavor, while the Dutch oven technique ensures a crispy, golden crust. Whether you enjoy it with butter, cheese, or as a base for sandwiches, this bread is bound to impress. Give it a try and experience the joy of homemade bread with minimal effort!