This Homemade French Bread recipe will give you crusty, flavorful loaves that are perfect for sandwiches, bruschetta, or to simply accompany a meal. Enjoy the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread!
Ingredients:
4 cups bread flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
2 teaspoons salt
1 ½ cups warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the water mixture into it.
Stir the mixture until a sticky dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back to the floured surface.
Divide the dough into two equal portions.
Shape each portion into a long loaf by rolling it out into a rectangle and then tightly rolling it up, starting from one of the shorter edges.
Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Cover the loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until they become puffy.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking dish filled with water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam.
Once the loaves have risen, make diagonal slashes on the top of each loaf using a sharp knife or a razor blade.
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the loaves turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serve the Homemade French Bread as a side to your favorite soups, salads, or enjoy it on its own.