How to Make No-Knead Bread at Home

Homemade bread sounds like hard work, but no-knead bread does most of the work for you. Time replaces kneading, and the result is a crisp crust with a soft, airy inside.

Ingredients

• 3 cups (400 g) plain or bread flour
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon instant yeast
• 1½ cups (350 ml) lukewarm water

Method

1. Mix the flour, salt and yeast in a large bowl.
2. Add the water and stir until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
3. Cover and leave at room temperature for 12–18 hours, until bubbly.
4. Turn onto a floured surface and fold into a rough ball.
5. Rest on baking paper for 30–60 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, heat a lidded casserole pot in the oven at 230°C (450°F).
7. Lift the dough on its paper into the hot pot, cover and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the lid and bake 10–15 minutes more until deep golden.

Easy flavour ideas

• Rosemary and garlic
• Cheese and black pepper
• Olives and sun-dried tomatoes
• Seeds on top

Storing

Keep the loaf in a paper bag or bread box for 2–3 days. Slice and freeze any you won't eat in time.