Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/4 teaspoon (0.75g) instant yeast
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (8g) salt
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water, about 110°F (43°C)

Instructions:

  1. Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. No kneading needed!
  2. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly.
  3. Gently deflate the dough on a lightly floured surface. Shape into a round or oblong loaf.
  4. Place the shaped dough on a piece of parchment paper. Cover loosely and let rise for 30-60 minutes.
  5. Place the Dutch oven (with lid) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (232°C) for at least 30 minutes. This is crucial for that amazing crust!
  6. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Gently lower the dough (using the parchment paper as a sling) into the Dutch oven.
  7. Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 20 minutes.
  8. Remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
  9. Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Patience is key – letting it cool allows the interior to set properly.