By The Vegan Hearth
There’s something profoundly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. This rustic artisan bread is simple to make, requiring just a few pantry staples, and yields a crusty exterior with a soft, airy interior. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping into soups, or enjoying with a smear of vegan butter.
Ingredients:
• 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) rapid-rise yeast
• 1¾ tsp salt
• 1½ cups warm water (approximately 110°F)
• Additional flour for dusting
Instructions:
1. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, rapid-rise yeast, and salt. Add the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Ensure all the flour is incorporated but avoid over mixing.
2. First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Preheat the Oven: About 30 minutes before the dough has finished rising, place a Dutch oven (with its lid) into your oven and preheat to 450°F (232°C). This ensures the Dutch oven is hot when you place the dough inside.
4. Shape the Dough: Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently fold the edges of the dough towards the center, forming a round loaf. Be careful not to deflate the dough too much.
5. Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped dough onto a piece of lightly floured parchment paper. Lightly dust the top with flour and gently smear it over the surface. Using a sharp knife or bread lame, score an arched slit on the top of the loaf. This allows the bread to expand while baking.
6. Bake: Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven from the oven. Using the parchment paper, transfer the dough into the Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Brown the Crust: After 30 minutes, remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 7 to 15 minutes, depending on your preferred crust thickness and color.
8. Cool: Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and place it on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps set the crumb and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions:
• Classic: Serve slices with vegan butter or your favorite plant-based spread.
• Soup Companion: Perfect alongside hearty soups or stews.
• Sandwiches: Makes for delicious sandwiches with your choice of fillings.
• Toast: Toast slices and top with avocado, hummus, or jam.
Enjoy the process and the delightful results of homemade bread. Happy baking!
The Humane Herald 