Whole Wheat Dutch Oven Bread (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 460 grams whole wheat flour (about 3-¾ cups)
02 - 2 cups warm water (100-115°F)
03 - 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
04 - 2 teaspoons kosher salt

# Instructions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Slowly incorporate the warm water using a wooden spoon or spatula until fully combined.
02 - Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow to ferment at room temperature overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
03 - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, gently shape into a round loaf. Let the dough rest while preheating the oven.
04 - Place a Dutch oven with its lid inside the oven and preheat to 230°C (450°F).
05 - Carefully remove the heated Dutch oven from the oven. Gently transfer the shaped dough into the hot pot. Cover with the lid and return to oven.
06 - Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until the crust is deeply golden.
07 - Remove bread from the Dutch oven and place on a wire rack. Allow to cool for 30-45 minutes before slicing to ensure proper texture.

# Notes:

01 - This no-knead method relies on time rather than kneading to develop the gluten structure, resulting in a bread with rustic texture and crisp crust.