The Easiest Artisan Bread Ever

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There is something a little magical about warm fresh bread.  We try not to eat too much of it, but we also can't stay away.  It reminds me of growing up when dad would make his English Muffin Bread.  That's another favorite of ours.  I don't remember if I have shared that recipe here or not.  I should.  I should make a few loaves too, so I can take pictures and such.  All in the name of the blog! Anyone else drool over bread pictures?

During our last trip out to visit my brothers and sisters, we were treated to a little delight.  OK, we treated ourselves to more than just a little of it.  One night my sister made some beef stew and was talking about how good the bread she makes with it is.  I had no idea! We ate so much that when we went bowling after dinner, I had to unbutton my jeans while I waited for my turn.  Since then, its either bread or beef stew.  Guess which one wins in my book?

The best thing about this recipe is not only is it unbelievably easy to make but it only takes 4 ingredients that most of us have on hand already.  Well that and it makes such a beautiful loaf.  Now that the boys know that I can make it here at home too, they ask on the regular.  I should probably just show them how to throw it all together themselves.  Its that easy.

Funny story.  A friend of mine came over one day and told me I was crazy for mixing bread by hand.  Another friend of mine got me a kitchen aid for Christmas so I wouldn't have to mix by hand anymore.  Wan't to know something really crazy?  This bread requires nothing more than a few stirs with a spoon.  No kneading.  Just mix and let it rise on the counter for 8-24 hours.  Yes. I just said 24 hours.  I just make it the evening before.

Then when you are ready to bake it and you have to do is turn it out onto some flour and pull it into a ball. Let it rest a little longer, then slash the top and bake it in a preheated pot.  I love this -->  Lodge Dutch Oven  for this.  It bakes covered for 30 minutes and then uncovered for another 10.  

It's fool proof.  Here is the super easy recipe!

PRINT THE RECIPE 

Ingredients:

• 3 cups of all purpose flour
• 1 t salt
• 1/2 t yeast
• 1.5 c of warm water

Directions:

• Stir all 4 ingredients in a large bowl until they are combined well.  
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit on the counter between 8 and 24 hours.
• Turn dough out on to a square of floured parchment paper.
• Fold the sides in and form into a ball.  
• Let it rest for 30 minutes.
• While the bread rests, place an oven safe dutch oven into the oven and pre heat to 450°
• Use a sharp knife to slash an X into the top of the dough.
• Carefully pick up the corners of the parchment and transfer it into the baking dish.
• Bake for 30 minutes covered.
• Remove cover and bake for 15 more minutes.
• Cool on a rack.
• Slice and enjoy!