Crusty Dutch Oven Bread

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the warm water and yeast. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes.
2. Add the olive oil and salt, and mix until combined.
3. Slowly add the flour, a cup at a time, and mix until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place a Dutch oven with a lid in the oven to preheat as well.
7. When the dough has doubled in size, remove it from the bowl and shape it into a round. Place the dough in the preheated Dutch oven and cover with the lid.
8. Bake the bread for 30 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 400°F and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Dutch ovens can reach temperatures of up to 600°F, making them ideal for baking bread.
• Dutch ovens are not just for baking bread – they can also be used for roasting, frying and stews.
• The Dutch oven was invented in the 18th century by a Dutch blacksmith.