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Classic French Baguette
Introduction:
Delve into the art of French baking with this classic French baguette recipe.
The baguette, with its golden crust and soft, airy interior, is a staple in French cuisine and has won the hearts of many around the world.
Making baguettes at home can be a rewarding endeavor, as the aroma of freshly baked bread is unparalleled.
This recipe will guide you through the traditional techniques of creating the perfect baguette.
Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp salt
1 tbsp instant yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
Cornmeal for dusting
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Extra flour for dusting
Instructions:
Dough Preparation:
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
First Rise:
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Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shaping:
Gently deflate the dough on a lightly floured surface. Divide into 3 equal parts. Roll each part into a long, thin shape, approximately 16 inches long. Place on a baking tray dusted with cornmeal.
Second Rise:
Cover the shaped dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
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Baking:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a small pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam. This helps in achieving a crispy crust.
Dust the top of the baguettes with flour and make diagonal slashes using a sharp knife.
Bake for 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooling:
Remove the baguettes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Conclusion:
Baking a classic French baguette at home is a delightful experience that brings a piece of French culinary tradition into your kitchen.
Serve your baguettes as a side to cheese, soups, or simply slathered with butter.
The process might seem labor-intensive, but the end result—a crispy, fresh, and delicious baguette—is well worth the effort.
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Enjoy the satisfaction of baking from scratch and the endless compliments from those lucky enough to taste your homemade bread.