As the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, there's a certain charm that captivates the senses and transports us to the heart of France. March 21st marks a delightful occasion in the culinary world - National French Bread Day. It's a celebration of one of the most beloved staples of French cuisine, a culinary marvel that has found its way into homes and bakeries worldwide.
French bread, often referred to as "baguette," is more than just a type of bread; it's a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and the art of baking. With its crispy crust and soft, airy interior, a good baguette is a testament to the skill and dedication of the baker. And what better way to honour this iconic bread than by baking it ourselves?
Homemade French Baguette Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups (450g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (6g) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt
Instructions:
-
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
-
Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
-
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
-
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
-
Shape the baguettes: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it onto a floured surface and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a rough rectangle, then roll it up tightly, sealing the seams as you go. Taper the ends to form a classic baguette shape.
-
Second rise: Place the shaped baguettes on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a baguette pan. Cover them loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
-
Preheat the oven: While the baguettes are rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack of the oven.
-
Score the baguettes: Using a sharp knife or a bread lame, make 3-4 diagonal slashes on the surface of each baguette. This helps the bread expand while baking and creates the signature "ear" on the crust.
-
Bake: Just before baking, carefully pour hot water into the shallow pan at the bottom of the oven to create steam. This steam will help create a crispy crust. Quickly transfer the baguettes to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
-
Cool and enjoy: Once baked, remove the baguettes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade French baguettes with your favourite spreads, and cheeses, or as an accompaniment to soups and salads.
National French Bread Day is not just about indulging in delicious bread but also about celebrating the rich culinary heritage and craftsmanship behind this beloved staple. By baking your own French baguettes at home, you not only get to savour the incomparable taste and texture but also partake in a tradition that has stood the test of time. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your kitchen as you celebrate this special day in true French style. Bon appétit!