Country: France Servings: Serves 4-6

Ingredients

• bread flour – 3 cups / 360 g
• whole wheat flour – 1 cup / 120 g
• water – 1.5 cups / 360 ml
• active dry yeast – 2 teaspoons
• salt – 2 teaspoons
• sugar – 1 tablespoon

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
2. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water (not hot, about 100°F / 38°C) and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 450°F / 232°C. Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Place on a baking sheet, sprinkle some flour on top, and make a few slashes on the surface with a sharp knife.
8. Cover and let rise for another 30-60 minutes.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
10. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Substitutions

• active dry yeast -> instant yeast (reduce to 1.5 teaspoons)
• sugar -> honey
• whole wheat flour -> rye flour

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Add seeds like sesame or sunflower to the dough for extra texture.
• Use a sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast for more complex flavors.
• Incorporate olive oil into the dough for a richer taste.