French Bread

French cuisine is one of the best in the world but Nigella Lawson's favourite French food is the simple French bread.

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Even the smallest village has their own boulangerie.

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And in country areas the bread van comes once or twice a week. 

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 You simply can't beat it in my opinion - perfect with any meal and just heavenly with French cheese!

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That is why for my 1st Food Sunday I am going to share the recipie with you for French bread. I hope you will try it and let me know what you think.

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FRENCH BREAD (2 loaves)



Preparation time: 25 min

Cooking time: 30 min

Total time: approximately 180min

Ingredients



250ml (2 cups) warm water 
(40 C or 110 F )

1 tablespoon of yeast


1 tablespoon of sugar


2 teaspoons of salt


625g (5 cups) plain (all-purpose) flour

Instructions


 Dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water in a large bowl


Allow yeast to proof or foam (approximately 10 minutes).


Add 375g (3cups) flour and salt; beat for 2 minutes 

Stir in remaining flour to make a stiff dough.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it smooth and elastic (about 8 -10 minutes).

Place the dough into a greased bowl ( Use a pastry brush dipped in melted butter or a light oil ), turning the dough to coat all surfaces.

 Cover the dough in the bowl (using cling (plastic) film or a damp tea towel) and let it rise until it has doubled in size.  

Punch down the dough then divide it in half.


Shape dough into two long, thin loaves.

Grease( Use a pastry brush dipped in melted butter or a light oil ).

Place loaves on a baking sheet or in pan or a French bread baking tray and make some light diagonal cuts on top of the loaves.


 Cover and let rise until each loaf had doubled in size.


 Bake at 190 C (350 F or Gas Mark 5) for approximately 30 minutes

Note: For a very crunchy crust, sprinkle or spray water onto the loaves during baking.          

Until next time!

Sacha xx