Making bread at home doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this simple 4-ingredient no-knead recipe, everyone can bake a wholesome and healthy loaf. This recipe not only simplifies the bread-making process but also focuses on using healthy ingredients for a nutritious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- Whole Wheat Flour: 3 cups – Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your bread, making it more nutritious.
- Water: 1 1/2 cups – Lukewarm water helps to activate the yeast more effectively, ensuring a good rise without the need for kneading.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the flavor of the bread and also strengthens the gluten in the dough.
- Instant Yeast: 1/4 teaspoon – A small amount goes a long way in this long fermentation recipe, contributing to the bread’s rise and texture.
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir these dry ingredients together to distribute the yeast and salt evenly.
- Add the lukewarm water to the bowl. Mix with a wooden spoon or a rubber spatula until all ingredients are well combined and form a sticky dough. There’s no need to knead; just make sure there are no dry patches.
- First Rise:
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise at room temperature (ideally around 70°F or 21°C) for 12-18 hours. The long rise time helps develop flavors and texture, and it also breaks down the grains for easier digestion.
- Shape the Dough:
- After the first rise, the dough will be bubbly and doubled in size. Transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface. With floured hands, fold the dough over itself a couple of times and shape it into a rough ball.
- Transfer the dough ball onto a piece of parchment paper. This makes it easier to transfer the dough into the hot pot later.
- Second Rise:
- Allow the dough to rest for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, covered with a clean towel. During this time, place a Dutch oven (with the lid on) in your oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C).
- Baking:
- After the second rise, carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from your oven. Lift the dough using the parchment paper and place it gently into the Dutch oven.
- Cover with the lid and return it to the oven. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Then remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cooling:
- Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing. This resting period lets the bread’s structure set and develops flavor.
Conclusion:
This 4-ingredient no-knead bread is not just easy to make but also healthier thanks to the whole wheat flour. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy fresh, homemade bread without the fuss. Serve it with soup, use it for sandwiches, or simply enjoy it with a drizzle of olive oil.
