Foolproof Crusty No-Knead Bread
Fancy a crack at a crusty bread recipe? This no-knead version is so easy, even your nan can do it! No Dutch oven needed. Get that bakery-style bread at home. ... Baking - Desserts
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever craved that proper bakery-style loaf but thought it was too hard? well, think again! this crusty bread recipe is so easy, even your gran could whip it up.
Honestly, the flavour is incredible! it's all down to that golden, bubbly crust and airy insides.
Brief Overview
Artisan bread doesn't need to be a faff. this recipe's a cheeky nod to classic european loaves. it's dead simple, only takes a bit of time but most is hands-off.
Expect around 8-10 generous slices from this beauty. it's easy bread no dutch oven
Main Benefits
One of the best bits? it's made without any fancy equipment. no need for a dutch oven! this baking bread without dutch oven method gives you a champion loaf every time.
Perfect for sunday lunch, or just a cheeky afternoon cheese board. what makes it special? that incredible flavour from the long, slow rise.
Right, let's talk ingredients. Fancy creating your own artisan bread without Dutch oven ?
Right then, let's talk about what you'll need to make this fantastic crusty bread recipe . it's easier than you think, honestly! i had nightmares about breadmaking before i tried this.
Now look at me!
Foolproof Crusty No-Knead Bread Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients: The Bare Essentials
Alright, here's the lowdown on the ingredients, measured properly. We're talking proper measurements, not guesswork!
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups (384g) , plus extra for dusting. Now, the flour! Plain all-purpose will do the trick.
- Lukewarm water: 1 3/4 cups (414ml) , about 105- 115° F (40- 46° C) . This is crucial for getting the yeast going.
- Kosher salt: 1 1/4 teaspoons (6g) . Table salt works in a pinch, but kosher gives a cleaner flavour.
- Instant yeast: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) . Make sure it's fresh! If it's been sitting in the cupboard for ages, it might be dead.
Seasoning Notes: Pimping Your Loaf
This is where you can get a bit fancy, you know?
- Essential spice combinations: A pinch of garlic powder or some dried rosemary adds a lovely touch. I once added a tiny bit of smoked paprika, oh my gosh, it was amazing.
- Flavor enhancers and aromatics: A drizzle of olive oil in the dough can make it richer.
- Quick substitution options: No kosher salt? Sea salt will do, just use a tad less. Try adding a pudding chia .
Equipment Needed: The Essentials
Don't go thinking you need a fancy bakery set up, alright?
- Essential tools only: A big bowl, some plastic wrap, and a tea towel. Easy peasy.
- Common household alternatives: Don't have a proper dough scraper? A spatula or even a sturdy butter knife will do. And listen, don't get caught up in baking bread without Dutch oven . You can use a regular pot with a lid. I’ve made this so many times without a Dutch oven !
- A Dutch oven or heavy pot with lid, because the secret to artisan bread without Dutch oven is preheating the pot separately.
So there you have it. It's a basic crusty bread recipe for real people. And remember, you don’t need an oven to make this bread using the No Oven Stovetop Bread method!.
Alright, guv'nor, let's get cracking on this crusty bread recipe . We'll make sure even your nan can nail this one. It'll be champion, I promise!
Cooking Method: Baking Crusty Bread Without a Fuss
Honestly, who has time for complicated baking? not me! so, i've cracked the code for an artisan bread without dutch oven – a crusty bread without dutch oven needed.
It's dead easy, even if you think baking is witchcraft. forget fancy techniques. this is all about simple steps and big flavour.
We are baking easy bread no dutch oven .
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
First, the mise en place is essential, like a chef's secret weapon. get your flour, water, yeast and salt all measured out.
It really speeds things up, you know? time-saving tip: keep your ingredients in clear containers. no more rummaging! safety first : make sure you have oven gloves and a steady surface, hot baking trays and you don't want any burnt fingers! this isn't the no oven stovetop bread version.
Step-by-Step to Bread Heaven
Right, let's bake some bread!
- Mix it up : In a big bowl, chuck in 3 cups of flour, 1 3/4 cups of warm water, 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of yeast. Give it a good mix. Don’t overdo it, just until it's combined.
- Rise and shine : Cover the bowl with cling film or a damp tea towel. Leave it somewhere warm for 12- 18 hours . This is the magic bit. It needs time.
- Shape up : Gently tip the dough onto a floured surface. Don't punch it. Shape it into a round or oval, whatever floats your boat.
- Second chance to rise : Pop the dough on some baking paper and cover loosely. Let it sit for 30- 60 minutes .
- Get the oven HOT : Heat your oven and a baking pot (with a lid) to 450° F . This is mega important. Give it at least 30 mins to get properly hot.
- Bake : Take the hot pot out. Carefully put the dough in using the paper. Put the lid on and bake for 20 minutes .
- Golden glory : Take the lid off and bake for another 15- 25 minutes . You want a deep golden brown.
- Cool down : Cool it on a wire rack. This is vital. Don't cut it while it's hot. Trust me!
Pro Tips: Secret Baker Moves
Honestly, the biggest mistake is not letting it rise long enough. be patient. want to make it ahead? you can leave the dough in the fridge after the first rise for up to 24 hours.
It'll even develop more flavour! looking for a quick no knead bread without dutch oven ? well, you found it.
Right then, there you have it. a no dutch oven artisan bread , anyone can make. this crusty bread recipe beats shop-bought bread.
And don't worry if it's not perfect first time. baking is all about practice. enjoy your bread, and don't forget the pudding chia for dessert.
Right, so you've just baked this amazing Foolproof Crusty No-Knead Bread . Now what? Let's talk about making the most of your loaf!
Recipe Notes: Getting The Most From Your Bake
Honestly, this crusty bread recipe is just the beginning. It's a blank canvas for all sorts of culinary adventures. And it all starts with a cracking loaf of crusty bread without dutch oven , or with one!
Serving Suggestions: Show Off Your Masterpiece
Presentation is key, innit? slice that bad boy up. stack it artistically. okay, maybe not too artistically. just make it look appetizing.
If you're serving it with soup, a rustic wooden board is the way to go. thinking about a pudding chia breakfast? toast a slice! or how about a simple drizzle of olive oil and balsamic? bangin'!
Now, complementary drinks. A nice red wine with cheese and bread? Always a winner. I find a bit of good ale pairs smashingly too!
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
Right, so you've got leftovers (unlikely, but let's be realistic). you can keep it at room temperature for a day or two.
Use a bread box or a paper bag. keep the cut side down. for longer storage, slice it up and chuck it in the freezer.
That way you have easy bread no dutch oven or with one ready whenever you want.
When you want a slice just pop it in the toaster. alternatively, use the grill. to reheat the whole loaf, wrap it in foil and bake at 350° f ( 175° c) for about 10- 15 minutes.
Variations: Mix It Up a Bit!
Fancy a change? You can easily make this artisan bread without dutch oven a bit different each time. Swap some of the flour for wholemeal. This adds a lovely nutty flavour.
For a savoury twist, throw in some chopped herbs and garlic. Rosemary and thyme work a treat. Also, consider trying Baking Bread Without Dutch Oven on a pizza stone! If that's not your cuppa, give No Oven Stovetop Bread a go by toasting some slices in the pan!
Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food
Okay, i'm no nutritionist, but here's the basic gist. this bread is mostly carbs. but carbs are fuel! a single slice will give you a steady amount of energy to keep you ticking.
Plus, it's low in fat. of course, slathering it in butter negates that somewhat! but everything in moderation, eh?
Plus, the longer fermentation process can make it easier to digest. Bonus!
Alright, that's about it. Hope you found this helpful. Now go forth and bake some Quick No Knead Bread Without Dutch Oven . You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my crusty bread recipe not as crusty as the ones I see in bakeries?
Achieving a truly crackling crust hinges on a few key factors. Firstly, ensure your Dutch oven is screaming hot – preheating it for at least 30 minutes at 450°F (232°C) is crucial. The steam trapped inside the Dutch oven during the initial baking period allows the crust to become perfectly crisp. Also, allow the bread to cool COMPLETELY before slicing; this allows the crust to fully set.
Can I use different types of flour for this crusty bread recipe?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour provides a reliable base, you can experiment with other flours. Substituting up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour will add a nutty flavour and heartier texture, though it may slightly affect the crust's crispness. You could also try bread flour for a chewier interior.
My dough is really sticky; is that normal for this crusty bread?
Yes, a sticky dough is perfectly normal for this high-hydration recipe! The higher water content is what contributes to the airy crumb and crusty exterior. Resist the urge to add more flour during mixing. Just be gentle when handling the dough and use a lightly floured surface and bench scraper when shaping it.
How long will this crusty bread stay fresh, and how should I store it?
Homemade crusty bread is best enjoyed fresh, ideally within 1-2 days. To store it, keep it in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in a tea towel at room temperature. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and soften the crust. If you want to keep it longer, slice it and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive the crust.
Can I make this crusty bread recipe without a Dutch oven?
While a Dutch oven is highly recommended for that amazing crust, you can still make this bread without one. You'll need to create steam in your oven by placing a baking sheet filled with water on the rack below the bread. Bake the bread on a preheated baking stone or sheet, and spritz the bread with water a few times during the initial baking period to create steam. The crust won't be quite as intense, but it will still be delicious.
My crusty bread is browning too quickly. What am I doing wrong?
If your bread is browning too quickly, especially on top, you can tent it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will prevent the crust from burning while allowing the inside to continue baking through. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate, as ovens can sometimes run hot.
