How to make baguettes at home

There’s nothing quite like the smell and taste of a fresh, warm . The crispy crust, soft center, and delicate flavor make it a staple of French cuisine. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this classic at home, you’re in luck. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making from scratch, right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 500g bread flour
– 10g salt
– 10g sugar
– 5g instant yeast
– 350ml lukewarm water

Instructions:

1. Mixing the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the yeast. Slowly pour in the lukewarm water while stirring gently with your fingers or a wooden spoon. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

2. Kneading the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and start kneading. Push the dough away from you with the heels of your hands, then fold it back in half. Repeat this motion for about 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky.

3. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

4. Shaping the baguettes: Gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Transfer it onto a floured surface and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle, then fold the longer sides inwards towards the center, and roll it tightly into a log shape. Place the formed baguettes onto a floured baking sheet, leaving enough space in between. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.

5. Preparing the oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place an oven-safe dish filled with water on the bottom rack. This will create steam and help achieve a crispy crust on the baguettes.

6. Scoring the baguettes: Before baking, use a sharp knife or a blade to make diagonal slashes along the top of each baguette. This will allow them to expand during baking without cracking.

7. Baking time: Carefully transfer the baking sheet with the baguettes into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.

8. Cooling: Once baked, remove the baguettes from the oven and transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Allow them to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Now you can enjoy your homemade baguettes! Serve them as a side to your favorite soup or salad, use them to make delicious sandwiches, or simply enjoy them on their own with a little butter. Baguettes are best eaten on the day they are made, but if you have any leftovers, you can store them in a paper bag to maintain their texture.

Keep in mind that making baguettes at home requires practice to perfect the technique. Don’t be discouraged if your first batch doesn’t turn out exactly as you envisioned. With time and experience, you’ll be able to create beautiful, tasty baguettes that rival those from a professional bakery. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and let the baking adventure begin!