Rustic Farmhouse Loaf

There's no better smell than a freshly baked loaf of bread. This artisan loaf resembles a sourdough boule but is perfect for anyone not quite on the sourdough train yet! Its crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior make it the ideal side for a big bowl of soup or stew - and it makes an incredible grilled cheese, too. It does take a little planning, as the dough needs to be prepped ahead of time and left to rise, but trust us - it's so worth the wait!

Prep Time: 10-12 hours

Bake Time: 40 minutes

What you will need:

• Dutch Oven with Lid
• 4 cups flour
• 2 cups water
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp oil (1 tbsp for the dough and 1 tbsp to grease the bowl)

Directions:

1. In the evening, or early in the morning, add all ingredients to the bowl of a stand mixer. 
2. Combine until a raggedy ball is formed. 
3. Using the remaining oil, grease a large bowl. Place the dough ball in the bowl, cover overnight (or for at least 8 hours). 
4. The next day, turn dough onto a gently floured surface and quickly shape into a tight ball.
5. Place on parchment paper and cover for another 2 hours. 
6. When ready to bake, preheat oven with the Dutch Oven inside to 450°F.
7. When the oven has reached 450°F, score a large X in the top of the dough. 
8. Carefully place the parchment paper with the dough ball into the hot Dutch Oven, and bake for 30 minutes with the lid on.
9. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for another 10 minutes. 
10. Allow 30 minutes to cool before cutting.

Whether you slice it warm from the oven ot save it for later, this rustic loaf is sure to bring a little farmhouse magic to your table!