No-Knead Artisan Bread (Easy Rustic Loaf)

This no-knead bread recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. With just four basic ingredients and zero kneading, you can make a bakery-style artisan loaf with a crispy crust and soft, chewy center.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
• 1½ cups (360 ml) warm water (around 40°C / 105°F)
• Optional: 1 tsp dried herbs (like rosemary or oregano)
• Optional: Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. Add the warm water and stir with a spoon until a sticky dough forms. It won’t look pretty — and that’s okay! If you’re using herbs, add them now. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel.

2. Let It Rise:
Leave the dough at room temperature for 10 to 12 hours (or overnight). During this time, the dough will double in size and become bubbly and airy.

3. Shape the Dough:
Flour your countertop and gently turn out the dough. Avoid kneading — instead, fold it a few times to form a round or oval shape. Place it on parchment paper, seam-side down.

4. Second Rise:
Cover the dough loosely and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes while your oven preheats.

5. Bake:
Place a Dutch oven or baking tray in the oven and preheat to 230°C (450°F). Once hot, carefully transfer the dough (on parchment) into the pot or tray. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for another 15–20 minutes until deep golden brown.

6. Cool & Enjoy:
Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool fully before slicing. This helps the crumb finish setting and keeps the inside moist.

Enjoy your homemade artisan bread with butter, soup, or just on its own!