No-Knead Artisan Bread (Dutch Oven Method)

Ingredients:

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (not hot)

Instructions:

1. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and instant yeast.
   • Add the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon or your hand until a shaggy dough forms. Do not knead it.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 12–18 hours (or overnight) until doubled in size and bubbly.
2. Shape the Dough:
   • Lightly flour a clean surface and your hands. Turn the dough out onto the surface.
   • Gently shape it into a round ball by folding the edges towards the center (do not knead).
   • Place the dough on parchment paper and cover it with a towel. Let it rest for about 30 minutes while you preheat the oven.
3. Preheat the Oven and Dutch Oven:
   • Place a Dutch oven (with lid) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes. This ensures the Dutch oven is very hot.
4. Bake the Bread:
   • Carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven and place the parchment paper with the dough into it.
   • Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
   • After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Tips:

• Use a Dutch oven for best results; it traps steam, which creates a crispy crust.
• Add flavor variations like garlic, rosemary, or seeds to the dough for extra taste.
• The longer the dough rises, the more flavor develops.

Enjoy this crispy, rustic, and soft artisan bread fresh out of the oven with butter or your favorite spreads. It’s perfect for any meal!