Homemade French Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 7 grams dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 ½ cups flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

Preparation:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small cup, combine yeast and sugar. Add warm water, stir gently, and let it sit until the mixture doubles in volume.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl or on a clean work surface, mix flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture.
3. Knead the Dough: Gradually incorporate the flour into the liquid until a cohesive dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead vigorously until smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten, ensuring the bread’s structure.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Bread: Divide the dough into medium-sized portions. Shape each portion by flattening it with your palm, gently stretching it sideways, and folding two opposite sides towards the center. Stretch the corners to elongate the dough.
6. Second Rise: Arrange the shaped bread portions on a baking sheet, cover with a cloth, and allow them to rise again until noticeably puffed up.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the bread for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on the outside and fully baked inside.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying.

This homemade French bread recipe yields deliciously crusty bread with a soft interior, perfect for any occasion.