Baguettes, Best Ever

Photo: flickr user yummyporky

Ingredients

1 pound bread flour

2 teaspoons sea salt

1 teaspoon instant yeast

10 ounces water * see note

Preparation

* Adjust the water temperature so that the combined temperature of the water and flour is 130F.

Place the flour, salt, and yeast in a food processor with the steel blade. With the machine running, pour all but 2 tablespoons of the called for liquid through the feed tube. Process for 20 seconds, and add the remaining liquid if the dough does not form a ball during this time.

Continue processing for another 25 seconds, for a total time of 45 seconds.

The temperature of the dough should be between 75-80F. If the dough is too cool, process for another 5 seconds. If it is too hot, place the dough in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes.

Place the dough in a large ungreased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and all to rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours at a cool temperature of 70-72F.

Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface, and divide the dough into 3 pieces. Shape into baguettes. Let them rise for 30-45 minutes. Sprinkle with flour, and slash diagonally several times.

Place a small pan on the oven flour. Preheat the oven (for one hour) to 475F. Pour one cup of water into the pan on the oven floor. Place the baguettes in the oven and reduce the heat to 450F.

Bake for 2 minutes, then quickly pour another cup of water into the pan. Bake for another 20-22 minutes until the crust is golden and taping the bottom produces a hollow sound.

NOTES : For a lighter texture, use all-purpose flour.

This dough can be used to make hearty peasant rolls or any other bread shape.

These were the absolute best baguettes I've ever made! [Ellen)