Easy Perfect Bread
INGREDIENTS
1.25 tablespoon sugar
2.5 cups warm water ( 110°F )
tablespoon salt
6 cups All-Purpose Flour
boiling water
flour for dusting or cornmeal
INSTRUCTIONS
In a large bowl mix together the yeast, sugar, salt and water. Let this
stand until the yeast is dissolved. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a
time to the liquid and mix thoroughly until the dough pulls away from
the sides of the bowl. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface to
knead.
Knead It: Fold the far edge of the dough back over on itself towards
you. Press into the dough with the heels of your hands and push
away. After each push, rotate the dough 95°. Repeat this process in a
rhythmic, rocking motion for 5 minutes, sprinkling only enough flour
on your kneading surface to prevent sticking. Let the dough rest while
you scrape out and grease the mixing bowl with a few drops of olive
oil or non stick baking spray. Knead the dough again for 3 minutes.
Let It Rise: Return the dough to the bowl and turn it over once to
grease the top. Cover with a damp towel and keep warm until the
dough doubles in bulk, about 1 to 2 hours.
Shape it: Punch down the dough with your fist and briefly knead out
any air bubbles. Cut the dough in half and shape into two Italian- or
French-style loaves. Place the loaves on a cookie sheet generously
sprinkled with cornmeal. Let the loaves rest for 7 minutes.
Read more..