Ingredients
- 500g bread flour
- 10g salt
- 7g instant yeast
- 350ml lukewarm water
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, and instant yeast. Make a well in the center and gradually pour in the lukewarm water. Mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to make the process easier.
Step 3: Proof the Dough
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for developing flavor and texture in the bread.
Step 4: Preheat the Wood-fired Oven
While the dough is proofing, start preheating the wood-fired oven. Make sure to have a good fire going and allow the oven to reach a temperature of around 450-500°F (230-260°C). Let the oven heat for at least 1 hour to ensure it’s thoroughly hot.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into your desired loaf shape, making sure to create surface tension by tucking the edges underneath.
Step 6: Final Proofing
Place the shaped loaf onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a floured proofing basket. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it proof for another 30-45 minutes. During this time, the dough will slightly rise again.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Transfer the proofed loaf into the preheated wood-fired oven using a wooden peel. Bake it for approximately 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. The smell of freshly baked bread will be irresistible, but try to resist the temptation and let it cool for optimal texture.
Now you can slice into your delicious homemade wood-fired bread and savor the fruits of your labor! Enjoy it fresh or toasted, with butter, spreads, or your favorite toppings. Happy baking!