Making bread at home is akin to capturing a moment of magic within your very own oven. Simple, yet infused with a touch of technique that makes all the difference. Today, we will embark on a journey to bake bread like a professional, utilizing a secret steam trick that will transform your loaf’s crust into an exquisite, crunchy masterpiece.
Ingredients
Utensils
Preparation
Step 1
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, yeast, and sugar.
Step 2
Gradually add the lukewarm water and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 3
Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until it doubles in size.
Step 4
Preheat your oven to 240°C, placing a pizza stone inside to heat up as well.
Step 5
Shape the dough into a ball and make a cross-shaped incision on the surface using a bread lame.
Step 6
Place the dough ball on the heated stone and spray water inside the oven just as you put the bread in.
Step 7
Bake the bread for about 40 minutes until a beautifully golden crust forms.
My Chef’s Tip
To achieve a beautifully golden and crispy crust, spray hot water into the oven just as you place the bread inside. This steam will help the crust form correctly and yield that sought-after crunchy texture.
Food and Wine Pairing
To accompany this delightful homemade bread, opt for a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc. Its fresh and fruity aromas will enhance the sweetness of the crumb.
Additional Information
Bread is an age-old tradition that dates back thousands of years. It is a testament to a rich and diverse culinary culture found across many civilizations. Making your own bread is a way to reconnect with this millennia-old history and add your personal touch.
