Artisan Hearth Bread

  • 145 mins
  • 190 mins

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 tsp yeast
  • 1 TBS sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 c warm water
  • 5 1/2-6 c flour

Preparation

Step 1

Mix together the first four ingredients. Let this stand until the yeast, sugar and salt are dissolved. Gradually add the flour to the liquid and mix thoroughly until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface to knead.

Knead dough for 5 minutes. Let the dough rest for a few minutes then knead the dough again for 2-3 minutes.

Place the dough into a greased bowl and turn it over once to grease the top. Cover with a damp towel and keep warm until the dough doubles in bulk, about 1-2 hours.

Punch down the dough and briefly knead out any air bubbles. Place the dough into Hearth Pan, forming a loaf. Let the dough rise for 45 minutes.

Lightly cut the top of the loaf 3 or more times diagonally and brush with cold water.

Bake at 375' for 35-45 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow to the touch.