Description
Discover a delightful variation on traditional batard bread that elevates the classic French loaf with unique flavors and textures. Perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying fresh with butter.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 cups water, lukewarm
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- Optional: chopped herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
- Optional: grated cheese (Parmesan, Gruyère)
- Optional: seeds (sesame, poppy, sunflower)
- Optional: spices (garlic powder, smoked paprika)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, salt, and any dry flavor additions.
- Gradually add water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into an elongated oval, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and slash the top of the batard.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature is 200-210°F (93-99°C).
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- For a crispy crust, bake on a preheated baking stone.
- Introduce steam in the oven for the first few minutes for a better rise.
- Avoid overkneading to prevent a tough loaf.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150 Kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: batard bread, homemade bread, unique bread recipes, French bread, artisan baking