Homemade Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for a softer crust)
• Cornmeal (for dusting)

Cooking Steps:

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center.

Step 3: Pour the yeast mixture into the well and begin to mix, gradually incorporating the flour.

Step 4: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed.

Step 5: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If you prefer a softer crust, brush the top of the risen dough with olive oil.

Step 7: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a round or oval loaf.

Step 8: Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal to prevent sticking.

Step 9: Cover the dough loosely with the kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 10: Make shallow slashes on the surface of the dough using a sharp knife or razor blade.

Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 12: Allow the Homemade Bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Step 13: Enjoy slices of warm, freshly baked bread with your favorite toppings or as a delightful accompaniment to meals.

Bask in the satisfaction of baking your own Homemade Bread, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of a classic and comforting staple.