No-Knead French Bread

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Gather the ingredients.

2. Step 2

   Add the water, yeast, salt, and flour into a mixing bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, stir well to form a wet, very sticky dough. Do not try to knead with your hands, as it is too sticky to handle.

3. Step 3

   Once mixed, cover the bowl with a towel, and leave at room temperature for 12 to 16 hours.

4. Step 4

   Flour a work surface well; using a spatula scrape the bubbly dough on to the flour.

5. Step 5

   Flour your hands and pat down into a square shape.

6. Step 6

   Fold each corner to the center, and flip the dough over so the folds are facing down.

7. Step 7

   Shape into a round loaf.

8. Step 8

   Generously sprinkle cornmeal on a baking sheet about twice the size of the loaf. The dough may stick unless you put a good amount on the pan.

9. Step 9

   Transfer loaf to the baking sheet, folds facing down. Sprinkle the top with flour.

10. Step 10

    Place a clean, dry, floured towel over the loaf, and allow to rise for 1 1/2 hours in a warm spot.

11. Step 11

    Position two racks in the oven on the center and bottom racks. Place a pie pan half-filled with water on the bottom rack and preheat to 425 F.

12. Step 12

    Remove the towel, and make a 1/2-inch deep incision across the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.

13. Step 13

    Bake on the center rack for 50 to 55 minutes.

14. Step 14

    Allow to cool on a rack before slicing.