Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water about 100°F
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, yeast, and sugar until the yeast and sugar are dissolved. Allow to sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in the flour and salt until a thick, sticky dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough sit in a warm spot for 2 to 3 hours, until it doubles in size.
- Place a Dutch oven with its lid in the oven and preheat to 450°F for about 20 minutes.
- While the oven heats, gently shape the dough on a piece of floured parchment paper and, if desired, score the top with a sharp knife.
- Carefully transfer the dough (with the parchment paper) into the heated Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Let the bread cool on a rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
