No Knead Bread - Edi Life

Hey bread enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the world of simplicity and deliciousness with a game-changer – No Knead Bread. Picture warm, crusty goodness straight from your oven without the need for vigorous kneading. It’s the lazy baker’s dream and the gateway to artisanal bread at home. So, if you’ve got flour, water, and a touch of patience, let’s embark on a journey of irresistible, freshly baked magic. Get ready to be amazed by the easiest bread recipe in town!

Ingredients

3 cups bread flour or all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
1 1/2 cups warm water 110 degrees

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and sea salt. Slowly pour in the warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon. Keep stirring until well combined. It is a sticky, loose dough. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and set it out on the counter to rise for 12-18 hours.
Work the dough out of the bowl onto a well-floured large piece of parchment paper. Sprinkle a little flour onto the top of the dough to make it easier to work with. Shape the dough into a rough ball using the parchment paper overhang to help. It does not need to be perfect. Remember, do not knead this dough.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap, a lightly moistened tea towel, or an upside-down glass bowl, and let it rise for 1 hour.
Meanwhile, place a large Dutch oven (3 1/2 quart) with the lid on, into the oven. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.
When the dough is ready, carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven. Remember everything, including the lid, will be very hot. Remove the lid, and using the parchment paper, place the dough into the pot. Cover it and place it back in the oven. Bake covered for 30 minutes.
Remove the lid and continue baking for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven to a cooling rack using the parchment paper overhang.
For best results, let the loaf cool for 1-2 hours before slicing.

Notes

This bread needs 12-18 hours to rise, so plan accordingly. If needed, you can slow down the rise by placing it in the fridge. It takes dough ten times longer to rise in the refrigerator than at room temperature.
You do not have to do the second rise on this dough, but it will make it a little lighter and airier loaf
I love my Dutch ovens. They are great for baking bread, braising meats, and cooking soup and stews. Check out this inexpensive yet highly-rated Dutch oven from Amazon.
Use the parchment paper overhang to help shape the dough, move it into the Dutch oven for baking, and remove it from the Dutch oven when it is hot.
Do not get too hung up on shaping this loaf, as it is a loose dough. Use the parchment paper to shape it and put it in the Dutch oven. A 3 1/2 quart Dutch oven will help it hold its shape.
Let the bread cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. Warm bread is very tempting, but your bread will taste better if you can wait.

Nutrition

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is No Knead Bread?

No Knead Bread is a revolutionary bread-making method that eliminates the need for traditional kneading. It relies on a slow fermentation process to develop gluten, resulting in an artisanal-style loaf with minimal effort.

How does No Knead Bread work?

The technique involves a long fermentation period, allowing the dough to develop gluten naturally. The absence of kneading makes it a low-maintenance yet effective way to achieve a rustic, crusty bread.

What ingredients do I need for No Knead Bread?

You’ll typically need basic ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. The slow fermentation allows the yeast to work its magic without the need for intensive kneading.

Can I customize No Knead Bread with additional ingredients?

Absolutely! You can add seeds, nuts, herbs, or even dried fruits to customize the flavor and texture of your No Knead Bread.

How long does it take to make No Knead Bread?

The total time, including resting and baking, is usually around 12-18 hours. Most of this time is hands-off, allowing the dough to ferment and develop its unique flavor.

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with various flours like whole wheat, rye, or spelt to create different flavors and textures in your No Knead Bread.

Do I need a Dutch oven to bake No Knead Bread?

While a Dutch oven is recommended for achieving a crispy crust and soft interior, you can use other covered, oven-safe pots or pans as alternatives.

Can I refrigerate the dough for No Knead Bread overnight?

Yes, refrigerating the dough can enhance flavor and convenience. Simply let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How do I get a crispy crust with No Knead Bread?

Preheating the Dutch oven or baking vessel is crucial. The covered environment traps steam, creating the ideal conditions for a crispy crust.

Can I double the recipe for No Knead Bread?

Absolutely! Adjusting quantities is easy, making it convenient to bake larger batches. Just ensure you have an adequately sized container for the dough to rise.