Save The Best Easy No-Knead Bread offers a simple path to homemade artisan-style bread that combines a crusty exterior with a delightfully airy interior. This recipe requires minimal effort and only a handful of everyday ingredients, making it especially appealing for beginners and seasoned bread lovers searching for a reliable staple. The long resting time replaces kneading, resulting in a flavorful loaf with a perfect texture.
Save Thanks to the slow rise at room temperature, the dough develops complexity without complicated techniques. Once baked, it yields a beautiful golden crust that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes or simply enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) instant yeast
- 1 1/4 teaspoons (8 g) salt
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) lukewarm water
Instructions
- 1. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, and salt.
- 2. Add Water
- Add the lukewarm water and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
- 3. First Rise
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours, until the surface is dotted with bubbles and dough has doubled in size.
- 4. Shape Dough
- Lightly flour a work surface and turn the dough out onto it. With floured hands, fold the dough over on itself once or twice. Shape it loosely into a ball.
- 5. Second Rise
- Place dough seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let rest for 30–60 minutes while the oven preheats.
- 6. Preheat Dutch Oven
- Place a Dutch oven (or heavy lidded pot) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes.
- 7. Bake Covered
- Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Lift the dough with parchment paper and lower both into the pot. Cover with the lid.
- 8. Bake Uncovered
- Bake for 30 minutes (lid on), then remove the lid and bake another 15 minutes, until golden brown and crusty.
- 9. Cool
- Transfer bread to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Make sure to cover the dough well during the long first rise to prevent drying out. When shaping, handle the dough gently to preserve air bubbles. Use a floured surface and hands to avoid excessive stickiness.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs, seeds, or roasted garlic before the first rise. If you enjoy a chewier crust, lightly spray the dough with water before baking.
Serviervorschläge
This No-Knead Bread pairs excellently with soups, cheeses, or simply dipped in olive oil. It also makes a fantastic base for sandwiches or bruschetta.
Save By following these simple steps, you can enjoy consistently delicious homemade bread that rivals your favorite bakery. Its ease and excellent flavor truly make it a kitchen favorite to return to time and again.