Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, helps the yeast activate)
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water with sugar (if using) and yeast. Stir to dissolve the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Prepare the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. If you’re using olive oil, add it to the dry ingredients. Gradually add the activated yeast mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the dough:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf or place it in a greased bread pan for a different shape.
- Second rise:
- Let the shaped dough rise again for 30-60 minutes, until it has puffed up a bit.
- Bake the bread:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). If you’re using a cast iron pot or Dutch oven, preheat it inside the oven. Once the dough has risen, carefully place it in the hot pot or on a baking sheet. If you’re using a baking sheet, you can score the top of the loaf with a knife to help it expand evenly as it bakes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool:
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy your freshly baked, homemade bread!