Bakkerij Meppel

How to Make the Perfect Loaf of Bread

Ingredients

- 3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting - 1 teaspoon (5 grams) active dry yeast - 1 teaspoon (5 grams) sugar - 1 teaspoon (5 grams) salt - 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) warm water (105-115°F)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. 2. Gradually add the warm water and stir until a dough forms. 3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. 4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. 5. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. 6. Shape each half into a loaf and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 7. Cover the loaves with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until doubled in size. 8. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). 9. Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. 10. Let the loaves cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips

- For a chewier loaf, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. - To add flavor, add herbs or spices to the dough. - If you don't have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand. - If the dough is too sticky, add more flour. - If the dough is too dry, add more water. - Let the dough rise in a warm place for best results. - Bake the loaves until they are golden brown for the best flavor. - Let the loaves cool on a wire rack before slicing for the best texture.