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Classic French Baguettes
Introduction:
The French baguette, a symbol of French culinary expertise, is beloved around the world for its crisp crust and soft, airy interior. This recipe guides you through the process of creating authentic French baguettes at home, bringing a piece of French tradition into your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Gradually add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add small amounts of flour as necessary to prevent sticking.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape the Baguettes:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into three equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a long, thin cylinder, approximately 14 inches long, and taper the ends.
- Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly floured baker’s linen.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped baguettes with a damp cloth and let them rise again until they are puffy and nearly doubled, about 45 minutes.
- Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a baking dish with water on the bottom rack to create steam.
- Just before baking, make several diagonal slashes on top of each baguette with a sharp knife.
- Bake the baguettes for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Conclusion: These homemade French baguettes bring the essence of a Parisian boulangerie into your dining room. Perfect for sandwiches, accompanying cheese, or simply slathered with butter, these baguettes offer a taste of France at any meal. The crispy crust and tender crumb are worth the effort, making this recipe a fulfilling baking adventure. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
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