Artisan Bread (Fool Proof)

I again got this recipe from my friend Jenny J.  She makes homemade bread for her family a ton.  Number one because they are picky eaters and she knows they will eat bread, and number two is because she is a rock star and cooks for her family every night.  This recipe is so easy because there is no kneading involved.  Because of that it's more of a bread to enjoy right when it comes out of the oven.  I usually cut the leftovers up and freeze it in the freezer and use it for toast.  The texture is chewy, with a crispy outside.  The bread is super flavorful. 

   

 Artisan Bread (Fool Proof)

1 1/2 tbs yeast
2 tsp sugar
3 C warm/hot water

Combine these ingredients in a bowl, and let yeast activate.

6 1/2 C flour
1 1/2 Tbs kosher salt
Any other mix ins (dried herbs, garlic, etc)

Add these ingredients to the yeast mixture.  Stir all together to combine and form a ball in the bowl.  Cover with plastic wrap, and let sit on the counter for 2-3 hours.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Place a glass loaf pan or 9x13 pan on the lower rack filled with 1-2 cups water.  (This creates steam in the oven for optimal texture).

Pour dour out onto a well floured counter, form into 2 large rounds or 4 smaller rounds.  Place on a jelly roll pan sprayed with cooking spray.  Cut slits using a serrated knife on the top of bread for design.  Let dough rise for another 20-30 min. Bake for 30 minutes in the oven. Remove to a cooling rack.