Components
(Makes 1 giant loaf or 2 smaller loaves)
- 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose or bread flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) immediate yeast
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) heat water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 3 tablespoons combined seeds (e.g., sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, or pumpkin seeds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (non-compulsory, for a softer crust)
- Additional seeds for topping (non-compulsory)
Directions
Step 1: Put together the Dough
- In a big mixing bowl, whisk collectively the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir within the heat water and blend till a shaggy dough varieties. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time till it’s manageable.
- Add the seeds and olive oil (if utilizing), and knead gently within the bowl to mix.
Step 2: Knead and Relaxation
- Switch the dough to a evenly floured floor and knead for about 8–10 minutes till easy and elastic.
- No-Knead Possibility: Should you favor a no-knead technique, merely combine the components till mixed and let the dough relaxation for 8–12 hours at room temperature.
- Place the dough in a evenly oiled bowl, cowl with a humid material or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1–2 hours, or till doubled in measurement.
Step 3: Form the Dough
- As soon as the dough has risen, punch it right down to launch any air.
- Form it right into a spherical or oval loaf (or divide it into two smaller loaves). Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a proofing basket.
Step 4: Remaining Rise
- Cowl the formed dough loosely with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise once more for 30–45 minutes, till it puffs up barely.
Step 5: Put together the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven, baking stone, or an empty baking pan on the underside rack of the oven to create steam for a crispy crust.
- If desired, brush the highest of the loaf with water or an egg wash and sprinkle further seeds for adornment.
Step 6: Bake
- Switch the bread to the oven. If utilizing a Dutch oven, fastidiously place the dough inside and canopy with the lid.
- Bake for 20 minutes with the lid on or with steam, then take away the lid or steam supply and bake for a further 15–20 minutes, or till the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hole when tapped on the underside.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at the least 20–half-hour earlier than slicing. This permits the inside to set correctly.
- Take pleasure in recent with butter, olive oil, or your favourite unfold!
Ideas for Success
- Seed Variations: Use any mixture of seeds you want. Toast the seeds beforehand for additional taste.
- Storage: Retailer the bread in an hermetic container at room temperature for as much as 3 days. Freeze for longer storage.
- Add-ins: Incorporate dried fruits, nuts, or herbs for a distinct taste profile.