Crusty French Breadbreads 1 tablespoon dry yeast 1/2 cup warm water 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/4 teaspoon sugar 3 cup white flour 1 cornmeal In a medium sized bowl, warmed, dissolve yeast in water & add salt, oil & sugar. Stir together. With a slotted spoon, beat in 1 3/4 c flour. Combine 1/2 c flour with the other ingredients. Set side in a warm area for 15 to 20 minutes. Flour a board with the rest of the flour & turn out the dough. Knead till it is no longer sticky. Flatten it with the palms of your hands. Fold in half & in half again. Roll until it is 10 1/2 inches long. Sprinkle cornmeal on a cookie sheet & set the dough. Use a brush to oil the surface. Slash the top of the dough with a sharp knife & allow to proof for 30 minutes or so. Preheat oven to 375F & bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven & spread the surface with water, using a brush. Continue to bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Anne Lerner, "Breads You Wouldn't Believe" |
