Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, warm and inviting, with gooey cheese melting into every bite. Our No Knead Cheesy Peasant Bread is not just a recipe; it's an experience that will elevate your culinary game without the fuss of traditional kneading. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a crusty, golden loaf that will impress your family and friends. Ready to unlock the secret to effortless homemade bread? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: European
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
- Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of warm water to the dry mixture. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir until the dough comes together and no dry flour remains. The dough will be quite wet and sticky, which is normal for no-knead bread.
- Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) into the dough. Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. The dough should double in size and be bubbly on the surface when ready.
- After the rising period, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a Dutch oven (with its lid) inside the oven while it preheats. This will help create a steamy environment for the bread to bake.
- Once the oven is preheated, carefully remove the hot Dutch oven. Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. With floured hands, gently shape the dough into a round loaf, being careful not to deflate it too much.
- Transfer the shaped dough onto a piece of parchment paper. This will make it easier to lift the loaf into the Dutch oven.
- Remove the lid from the hot Dutch oven and carefully lift the parchment paper with the dough into the pot. Replace the lid and return it to the oven.
- Bake the bread covered for 30 minutes. This will help the bread to rise and develop a crust.
- After 30 minutes, remove the lid of the Dutch oven and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and has a crispy crust.
- Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven using the parchment paper. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Enjoy your delicious No Knead Cheesy Peasant Bread warm or at room temperature, perfect for serving with butter, soups, or as a side to any meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend for a unique flavor profile.
- Perfect Rising Conditions: For optimal dough rising, place your bowl in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, consider turning on the oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
- Don’t Skip the Dutch Oven: Using a Dutch oven creates a steamy environment that is crucial for achieving that perfect crust. If you don’t have one, you can use a heavy pot with a lid, but ensure it can withstand high temperatures.
- Handle with Care: When shaping your dough, remember that it will be sticky. Use floured hands and work gently to maintain the airiness of the dough.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the interior set properly and enhances the texture.
- Serve it Right: This bread pairs wonderfully with butter, soups, or can be enjoyed on its own. Consider adding herbs or garlic to the dough for an extra flavor boost!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
