Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons (8g) instant yeast
  • 2 teaspoons (12g) salt
  • 1 tablespoon (12g) sugar
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil or melted unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Stir in the warm water and oil until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  4. Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it by rolling into a log, tucking in the edges, and placing it in the greased loaf pan.
  5. Cover the loaf with the towel and let it proof for another 30 minutes, or until it has risen above the rim of the pan.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  7. Remove from the oven, then let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.