No-Knead Bread

No-Knead Bread has taken the world of home baking by storm for its simplicity and the outstanding results it produces. This bread recipe eliminates the need for kneading and hours of waiting, yet it yields a beautifully crusty and artisanal loaf that will fill your kitchen with the heavenly aroma of freshly baked bread. With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread like never before.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast (also known as rapid-rise or quick-rise yeast)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• Cornmeal or additional flour for dusting

Instructions:

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and instant yeast. Mix the dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
2. Pour the warm water into the bowl. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until all the flour is absorbed. The dough will be sticky and shaggy.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest at room temperature for at least 12 hours and up to 18 hours. During this time, the dough will rise and develop air bubbles.

Step 2: Preparing for the Second Rise

1. After the initial rise, the dough should be wet and bubbly. Dust a clean work surface with flour or cornmeal.
2. Use a spatula or your hands to gently scrape the dough out of the bowl onto the floured surface.
3. Gently fold the dough over itself a couple of times. You’re not kneading it; you’re just shaping it into a rough ball.
4. Place the dough back into the bowl, seam side down. Cover it again and let it rest for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a covered Dutch oven or heavy, oven-safe pot (with a lid) inside the oven while it preheats.

Step 4: Baking the Bread

1. Once the oven and pot are thoroughly preheated, carefully remove the pot from the oven.
2. Carefully lift the risen dough and place it into the preheated pot. Be cautious as the pot is extremely hot.
3. Put the lid on the pot and return it to the oven. Bake covered for 30 minutes.
4. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is beautifully golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 5: Cooling and Enjoying

1. Carefully remove the bread from the pot and place it on a wire rack to cool.
2. Allow the bread to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for the inside of the bread to set properly.
3. Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade, crusty No-Knead Bread.

Notes:

• This no-knead method relies on a long fermentation period, so patience is key. The longer you let the dough rest, the better the flavor.
• You can add variations to the basic recipe by incorporating ingredients like seeds, nuts, or herbs into the dough during the initial mixing.

No-Knead Bread is a simple and rewarding way to make fresh bread at home. With minimal effort and a few basic ingredients, you can enjoy the delicious satisfaction of homemade bread that boasts a crisp, golden crust and a tender, airy crumb. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the world of bread-making, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.