Homemade Bread

Directions

1. 1
   In a medium bowl, place the flour.
2. 2
   Make a well in the center and add half of the water, yeast, sugar and salt.
3. 3
   With hands or with a fork, mix flour from the sides of the bowl into the center until a sticky dough forms.
4. 4
   Add the remaining water and keep kneading. Sprinkle hands with flour, if needed.
5. 5
   Knead, pull and fold the dough, repeat steps until dough has a smooth consistency.
6. 6
   Sprinkle dough surface of the flour, cover with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled in size.
7. 7
   When the dough has risen, knead and punch for 30 seconds to remove air bubbles.
8. 8
   Place the dough in a covered container or plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to one week.
9. 9
   When ready to bake, remove dough from the fridge, sprinkle with flour and shape with hands into desired form.
10. 10
    Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sprinkle with flour and let it rise for 30 minutes inside the oven at 50°C (approximately 125°F).
11. 11
    With a sharp knife, score dough surface with several shallow cuts.
12. 12
    Increase oven temperature to 200°C (approximately 400°F) and bake for 20-30 minutes.
13. 13
    Tip: To test for doneness, tap the bottom of bread. The bread should be light and make a hollow sound when tapped.