Go Back
Dorothy Thomas

Rustic Bread Recipe

A simple, no-fuss Rustic Bread with a crispy crust and soft, airy interior. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or enjoying with butter and jam.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 19 hours
Servings: 1 12
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: European, French
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • (400g) 3 ¼ cups Bread flour
  • (350ml) 1 ½ cups Warm water
  • (8g) 1 ½ tsp Salt
  • (1g) ¼ tsp Active dry yeast

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
  • Dutch oven (or heavy oven-safe pot with lid)
  • Parchment paper (optional)

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
  2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it ferment at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
  4. After fermentation, the dough should be bubbly. Lightly flour a surface and fold the dough a few times into a round shape.
  5. Place it on parchment paper (if using) and let it rest for 30 mins.
  6. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside for 30 mins.
  7. Carefully transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 mins.
  8. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 mins until golden brown.
  9. Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 mins before slicing.

Notes

✔ For a chewier crust: Spritz water in the oven before baking.
✔ Storage: Keep in a paper bag for 2 days or freeze for longer shelf life.
✔ Variations: Add herbs, garlic, or olives for extra flavor.