Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons (9g) salt
  • 1 teaspoon (4g) sugar
  • 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil (optional, for added flavor)
  • Additional flour for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Stir the dry ingredients into the yeast mixture until combined.
  3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a towel. Let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch the dough down. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
  6. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet or into a greased Dutch oven. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
  7. While the dough rises, preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. If desired, slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife for decoration and to help control the rise. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  9. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.