Country Bread Pain de Campagne easy ways and tips

bread flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

sourdough starter

🥗Healthier: commercial yeast

💰Cheaper: none

Commercial yeast is easier to find and quicker to use.

honey

🥗Healthier: agave syrup

💰Cheaper: sugar

Agave syrup is a lower glycemic index sweetener.

Prepare your starter a day before baking by feeding it with equal parts flour and water.

Mix the starter with flour and water in a large bowl until combined.

Add salt to the mixture and mix well until the dough starts to come together.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth.

Let the dough rise at room temperature until it has doubled in size, which may take about 1-2 hours depending on the temperature.

Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a floured surface.

Cover the shaped loaf with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to an hour.

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with a baking stone inside if you have one.

Transfer the loaf onto the baking stone or a baking sheet and score the top with a sharp knife.

Bake for about 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool the bread on a wire rack before slicing.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens