No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread
Crusty artisan bread with minimal effort. Just mix, wait, and bake. The Dutch oven creates the perfect crust.
Ingredients
- 400g bread_flour
- 1tsp active_dry_yeast
- 1.5tsp salt
- 325ml warm water, about 40°C/105°F
Equipment Needed
- dutch_oven
- bench_scraper
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Add water and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. No kneading needed.
- 2
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours until doubled and bubbly on top.
- 3
Flour a work surface generously. Turn out the dough and fold it over itself a few times. Shape into a rough ball.
- 4
Place dough on parchment paper, cover with a towel, and let rise for 2 hours.
- 5
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with the Dutch oven inside for 30 minutes.
- 6
Carefully lower the dough (on parchment) into the hot Dutch oven. Score the top with a sharp knife. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
- 7
Remove lid and bake another 15 minutes until deep golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips
- The long fermentation develops flavor. Don't rush it - 12 hours minimum for best taste.
- Use a heavy, oven-safe Dutch oven with a tight lid. The steam creates the crackling crust.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to allow the interior to set properly.