Artisan Rustic Boule Bread Recipe

Bread baking is an art, and this rustic boule is a masterpiece. Perfect for any meal, it has a crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior that makes it an ideal companion for soups, salads, or simply enjoyed with butter. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is an experience all its own.

This recipe is simple yet rewarding, allowing you to create a loaf that boasts a rustic charm and taste. The crust is beautifully golden and crispy, while the inside remains tender and airy. Once you taste a slice fresh out of the oven, you’ll understand why this bread is a favorite among home bakers.

Understanding the Rustic Boule

The rustic boule is a classic bread that embodies simplicity and warmth. Its round shape, coupled with a crisp crust and airy interior, makes it a staple in many kitchens.

This bread is not just about aesthetics; it also offers a delightful texture that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. Whether served alongside a hearty soup or enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil, a rustic boule can elevate any dining experience.

Key Ingredients for Success

Creating a delicious rustic boule requires only a handful of essential ingredients. The base typically includes all-purpose flour, salt, instant yeast, and warm water. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the desired flavor and texture.

Flour provides the structure, while salt enhances the taste. Yeast is responsible for fermentation and rise, creating those characteristic bubbles in the dough. Warm water brings everything together, ensuring a cohesive mixture that can be molded into its iconic shape.

Mastering the Dough Preparation

Preparing the dough is a crucial step in the baking process. Start by combining the dry ingredients before gradually adding warm water. This method helps in forming a shaggy dough that’s easy to handle.

A gentle kneading session, lasting about 5 to 7 minutes, is essential to develop gluten, which contributes to the bread’s chewy texture. After kneading, allow the dough to rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size, a process that enhances the flavor complexity.

Shaping and Rising

Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and shape it into a round loaf. This shaping process is vital in achieving that perfect boule appearance.

After shaping, let the loaf undergo a second rise. This step is crucial for developing volume and lightness in the finished bread. A cozy, covered environment allows the dough to flourish before it meets the heat of the oven.

Oven Preparation and Baking

Preheating the oven is a critical phase in baking. A high temperature helps create a crusty exterior while retaining a soft interior. Using a Dutch oven or a pizza stone can enhance the baking process, mimicking a professional bread oven.

Before placing the dough in the oven, score the top with a sharp knife. This technique allows the bread to expand properly during baking, leading to an impressive rise. The baking time is essential to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust that is sought after in artisan bread.

Serving Your Rustic Boule

Once baked, let your rustic boule cool on a wire rack. This cooling period allows the steam to escape, ensuring a firm yet soft texture.

When ready to serve, slice into the warm loaf and reveal its airy interior. Pair it with fresh herbs and a small dish of olive oil for dipping. The presentation is not only inviting but also enhances the overall tasting experience.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• Extra flour for dusting

Instructions

1. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Gradually add warm water until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Boule: Gently deflate the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf and place it seam side down on a floured baking sheet or in a proofing basket.
5. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes.
6. Preheat the Oven: About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a Dutch oven or pizza stone inside to heat.
7. Bake: Carefully transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven or onto the stone. Score the top with a sharp knife to allow for expansion, cover with the lid (if using a Dutch oven), and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
8. Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 1 boule
• Calories: 180kcal
• Fat: 0.5g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 37g