FourHour Baguette Baguette recipe, Bread recipes, Recipes from www.pinterest.com.au
Introduction
Baguette is a traditional French bread that is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It's the perfect accompaniment to any meal, whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Making a baguette from scratch may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and technique, you can achieve bakery-quality results at home. In this article, we will share our favorite baguette recipe with you and guide you through the process step-by-step.
Ingredients
To make two baguettes, you will need:
500g of all-purpose flour
10g of salt
10g of active dry yeast
350ml of warm water
Optional:
Cornmeal or semolina flour for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix the yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a baguette by flattening it into a rectangle and rolling it tightly from the long side. Pinch the seams to seal them.
Step 5: Second Rise
Place the baguettes on a floured surface or a baguette pan. Cover them with a damp towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they double in size.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking stone or a baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well.
Step 7: Score the Baguettes
Using a sharp knife or a bread lame, score the baguettes with three diagonal slashes on top.
Step 8: Bake the Baguettes
If using a baking stone, slide the baguettes onto the stone. If using a baking sheet, transfer the baguettes onto the sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the baguettes cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing them. Serve them warm or at room temperature with butter, cheese, or your favorite spread.
Nutrition
One serving of baguette (60g) contains:
Calories: 161
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 0.5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0.5g
Tips and Variations
For a more complex flavor, use a combination of all-purpose flour and bread flour.
For a softer crust, brush the baguettes with butter or milk before baking.
For a crustier crust, spray the baguettes with water before baking or place a pan of water in the bottom of the oven to create steam.
You can add herbs, cheese, or olives to the dough for a savory twist.
You can also add cinnamon, raisins, or chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Conclusion
Making a baguette from scratch is a rewarding experience that doesn't require any special equipment or skills. With this recipe, you can enjoy fresh and delicious baguettes at home anytime. Experiment with different variations and enjoy the endless possibilities of this versatile bread.