Dutch Oven Bread with 4 Ingredients

Steps

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1. 1
   Combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a standing mixer. Add warm water and mix using the dough hook until the mixture forms a shaggy, slightly sticky dough. Do not overmix; the dough should not be perfectly smooth.
   ▶ ≈0:13
2. 2
   Use damp hands to gently stretch and fold the dough all around the surface, working carefully to develop structure without deflating it.
   ▶ ≈0:38
3. 3
   Repeat the stretch and fold technique every 30 minutes, twice total, then let the dough rise for another hour until it is beautifully risen and puffy.
   ▶ ≈0:45
4. 4
   Place a Dutch oven with its lid in the oven and preheat to 500°F for about an hour.
   ▶ ≈1:05
5. 5
   Gently gather the risen dough and shape it into a round loaf by pinching the bottom to create a seam. Handle it minimally to avoid deflating and keep it fluffy.
   ▶ ≈1:12
6. 6
   Place the shaped dough on parchment paper dusted lightly with flour. Score the top with a sharp knife or razor blade, making a cross or X pattern.
   ▶ ≈1:37
7. 7
   Carefully transfer the dough on parchment paper into the preheated Dutch oven. Optionally add a couple of ice cubes to help with rise. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
   ▶ ≈1:50
8. 8
   Remove the Dutch oven lid and bake for another 10 minutes or until the bread is deeply golden brown.
   ▶ ≈2:11