| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 260 | 1g | 0.2g | 53g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 2g | 9g | 0.6g |
About Baguette
Welcome to your introduction into the world of a singular culinary joy: the Baguette. Hailing from France, the baguette is a long, slender loaf of bread that has undoubtedly become a universal symbol of French cuisine. Tantalizingly crusty on the outside, yet soft and airy on the inside, the delightfully simple compilation of bread flour, salt, sugar, yeast, warm water, cornmeal, egg white, and a touch of additional water breathes life into this iconic staple.
The Charm of a True Baguette
The baguette, with its golden exterior and deliciously tender core, truly embodies the phrase “less is more”. A skillful blending of just a few ingredients creates a gastronomic experience that transcends geographical boundaries. Although the recipe is simple, the method of preparation and the devotion it requires sets it apart from other kinds of bread. This humble loaf presents a gentle, slightly sweet flavor profile, thanks to the use of white sugar. The hearty quality of the bread flour, combined with the distinct flavor contributed by the active dry yeast, all come together to create the perfect baguette.
The Versatility of the Baguette
The baguette’s versatility is another reason for its soaring popularity. It can be enjoyed as it is, used to make mouth-watering French toast, or sliced diagonally to serve as a base for tuna melts. Paired with a hearty stew or a bowl of creamy soup, such as tomato soup, it could be the highlight of any dining table. From sandwiches to bruschetta, the baguette is a multifaceted culinary marvel that seamlessly fits into a myriad of dishes.
Baguettes also make a great companion to a selection of cheeses and wines, their crusty texture and soft insides absorbing the rich flavors, making them memorable.
In Conclusion
There’s an undeniable element of charm and sophistication surrounding the baguette. It’s a testament to the magic that the right combination of ingredients can create when handled with care. Whether you’re a passionate home baker or simply enjoy a good loaf of bread, getting to know about the baguette is truly a rewarding journey. As you delve deeper, you may find the nuanced taste, texture, and versatility of baguettes beat any other loaves in the breadbasket.
What You’ll Need
- 4 1/2 cups Bread Flour
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 tablespoon White Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
- 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (110 degrees F)
- 1 teaspoon Cornmeal
- 1 Egg White
- 1 tablespoon Water
Method
Step One
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, and white sugar. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
Step Two
In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. Make sure the water temperature is around 110 degrees F. Wait for the yeast to foam, which typically takes about 10 minutes.
Step Three
Gradually pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Stir the mixture continuously until it forms a dough.
Step Four
Take the dough out of the bowl and place it on a lightly floured surface. Knead it for approximately 6 to 8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step Five
Lightly oil a large bowl, then place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about an hour.
Step Six
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking sheet and sprinkle it with cornmeal.
Step Seven
Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal pieces and form into loaves. Place the loaves onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step Eight
In a small bowl, beat together the egg white and 1 tablespoon of water; brush the mixture over the loaves. Then, make 4 or 5 diagonal cuts about 1/4 inch deep across the top of each loaf.
Step Nine
Bake your baguettes in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
