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Homemade No-Knead Bread: Crispy on the Outside and Soft on the Inside, Ready in Just a Few Minutes

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How to Make Homemade No-Knead Bread

Homemade bread is one of the simplest joys of life, and no-knead bread takes it to the next level by eliminating the most tedious part: kneading. With this recipe, you can create a golden, crusty loaf that’s soft and airy inside, without breaking a sweat. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone short on time. Follow along to discover the magic of no-knead bread with detailed instructions, helpful tips, and FAQs.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious bread:

  • 4 cups of all-purpose flour (sifted) – 500 g
  • 1.5 cups of warm water – 350 ml
  • 1/3 cup of warm water – 100 ml
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of instant dry yeast for bread
  • 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

Start by preparing the yeast mixture:

  • In a bowl, combine 100 ml of warm water, sugar, and dry yeast.
  • Add 3 tablespoons of flour and mix well until smooth.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel, letting it rest for 15-20 minutes. During this time, the yeast will activate and form bubbles, signaling it’s ready to use.

2. Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, sift the remaining 500 grams of flour and mix in the salt.
  • Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and 350 ml of warm water. Stir to combine.
  • Once the mixture is uniform, add the vegetable oil and mix thoroughly.

3. Rest the Dough

  • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and a towel, letting it rest for 15-20 minutes.
  • After resting, gently fold the dough a few times in the bowl. Folding helps build structure without kneading.

4. Repeat the Resting and Folding Process

  • Repeat the process of resting and folding two more times, ensuring the dough rests for a total of 50-60 minutes. Each time you fold, you’ll notice the dough becoming smoother and more elastic.

5. Shape the Dough

  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Flatten it slightly and fold it in half twice to shape.
  • Divide the dough into four equal portions and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Cover the dough portions and let them rest for another 30 minutes to rise.

6. Bake the Bread

  • Preheat your oven to 392°F (200°C). Place a bowl of boiling water inside the oven to create steam, which helps achieve a crispy crust.
  • Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty.
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7. Cool and Serve

  • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your no-knead homemade bread warm with butter, or use it as the base for sandwiches, soups, or dips!

Tips for the Perfect No-Knead Bread

1. Use Fresh Yeast

Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Old or inactive yeast can result in flat or dense bread.

2. Be Precise with Measurements

Baking is a science, so measure your ingredients carefully for the best results.

3. Adjust Resting Time

If your kitchen is cold, the dough may need more time to rise. Place the bowl in a warm spot, like near a window or a preheated (but off) oven, to speed up the process.

4. Don’t Skip the Steam

The steam in the oven is crucial for a crunchy crust. If you don’t have a bowl for boiling water, spray water into the oven just before baking.

5. Allow Proper Cooling

Let the bread cool completely before cutting. This helps the crumb set properly, preventing a gummy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in a denser loaf. For best results, use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.

2. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough after the first resting phase for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.

3. How should I store leftover bread?

Store leftover bread in an airtight container or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To refresh, heat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes.

4. Can I freeze the dough or baked bread?

Yes, both the dough and the baked bread freeze well. For the dough, freeze it after shaping. For baked bread, slice it before freezing for easy reheating.

5. Why didn’t my bread rise properly?

This could be due to inactive yeast, insufficient resting time, or a cold environment. Make sure your yeast is fresh, and allow enough time for rising in a warm spot.

Homemade no-knead bread is a game changer for anyone looking to enjoy fresh, bakery-style bread without the hassle. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Happy baking!

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