Ingredients
Scale
- 3 1/2 cups (420g) bread flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 3/4 cups (420ml) lukewarm water
- 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons (12g) salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water. Let it stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 6-8 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1.5-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Gently deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into an oval, tapering the ends.
- To do this, flatten the dough slightly, then fold the top third down and press to seal. Fold the bottom third up and press to seal. Gently roll the dough to create a batard shape.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a baking stone or baking sheet in the oven while it preheats.
- Place the shaped batard on a piece of parchment paper. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or lame.
- Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the batard onto the preheated baking stone or sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
- Let the batard bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use a Baking Stone: Placing a baking stone in your oven helps to create a crispier crust by providing consistent heat.
- Score the Dough: Scoring allows the bread to expand properly in the oven and prevents it from bursting.
- Cool Completely: Resist the urge to cut into the bread while it’s still warm. Cooling allows the crumb to set properly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
- Calories: 175 Kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg