Posted by Gerard on August 15, 1998 at 17:49:21:
In Reply to: I require a good french bread recipie posted by Tommy on August 15, 1998 at 17:32:28:
: CAN ANAYONE HELP ME WITH A GOOD FRENCH BREAD RECIPIE THIS RECIPIE HAS TO BE FOR A GOOD CRUSTY BREAD
1 gal cold water
4 oz salt
12-13 lbs high gluten flour
12 oz- 1 lb fresh yeast.
Mix til developed, dough should be 78-80 F when machine is stopped.
First rise at least 1 hour, knock back and let rise another 20 minutes.
Scale out to 12 oz and tighten into balls (approx 18 loaves?)
Assuming you get this far...the crust needs steam during the first part of the bake,
leave a tray in the bottom of the oven, pour hot water into it after putting bread in the oven.
Bake HOT til done.
It depends heavily on skill and technique, many French recipes are like this, they look easy but don't let that fool you.
Trick ingredients won't help in the least, sea salt and spring water might make you feel better but they won't make a diddly of difference to the dough.