Thursday, 30 July 2009

Italian Style Country Loaf

I found this recipe in Recipies+ this month and made it last night as a test. Because it doesn't need much kneading I thought it would be good for camping. It turned out well, so will give it a try in the camp oven next!

1 teaspoon dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon sugar (may try 1 tsp next)
3 cups plain bread flour
1 teaspoon salt (I might try a bit more next time)
1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
extra flour to knead and to dust

Combine 1/2 cup lukewarm water, yeast and sugar in a cereal bowl. Half fill the sink with warm water, stand bowl in the water for 10 minutes till it goes frothy.
Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl. Make a well and stir in the yeast mix and a cup of lukewarm water. Place the dough in an oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Stand in a sink of warm water for 45 minutes until dough has doubled in size.
Knead dough on a floured surface for 2 - 3 minutes till smooth. It will be quite sticky now so use your fingertips to knead for a further 5 minutes, don't add too much extra flour while kneading though you will need to add a bit.
Place on a greased baking tray, shap into a 30cm loaf. Dust generously with flour and make 6 smaill cuts in the top with a small sharp knife.

Place in a cold oven. Turn oven to 190C or 170C fan forced.

Bake for 45 minutes until crusty and golden brown.
I put mine in a bread tin and it turned out well also. As you can see it didn't last long!