Pain de Campagne

Prep: 30 mins Cook: 45 mins Difficulty: Medium Serves: 6
kcal fat saturates carbs
227 1.5g 0.3g 47.2g
sugars fibre protein salt
0.4g 3.2g 7.7g 0.8g

About Pain de Campagne

The rustic appeal and tantalizing aroma of the Pain de Campagne is almost poetic, a nod to an old-world European bakery right in your kitchen. This traditional French bread, also known as “Country Bread,” encapsulates the effortless charm of French cuisine – ripe, hearty and delectably versatile.

Pain de Campagne

Origin and Distinction

Named after the simplistic countryside life in France where it originated, the Pain de Campagne is a fundamental staple in many French households. This homemade bread is a healthier alternative to common white baguettes, utilizing a blend of whole wheat and bread flour to achieve its signature hearty texture and flavor. Its naturally fermented, slightly sour taste sets it apart from generic French Bread, making it a favorite for those seeking to add dimension to their dishes.

Perfect Pairings

Pair your freshly baked Pain de Campagne with a bowl of steaming French onion soup or simply lather it in pate for a straight-forward appetizer. The beautifully crusted exterior and soft spongy crumb make it an exceptional choice for rustic Pan Bagnat sandwiches or as a trusted companion to a hearty Boeuf Bourguignon. This versatile bread also serves excellently with a selection of cheeses, cured meats, or even a simple touch of butter and a drizzle of honey.

A lovingly made batch of the Pain de Campagne is not just bread; it’s a loving tribute to traditional French cuisine that welcomes modern adaptations. Serving the Country Bread at your table will present a unique dining experience that sings of authenticity, heartiness, and simplicity. The crusted exterior to the soft, slightly tangy crumb is more than just pleasure to the taste buds. It’s evoking the homely backdrop of life in French countryside farmlands, one slice at a time.

What You’ll Need

  • 1 1/2 cups of warm water (110 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast
  • 3 1/2 cups of bread flour
  • 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour
  • 2 teaspoons of salt
  • Cornmeal for dusting
ALLERGENS: Gluten, Wheat

Method

Step One

Pour the warm water into a large bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water. Let it sit for 5 minutes or until the yeast is dissolved and starts to foam.

Step Two

Add to the yeast mixture, 3 1/2 cups of bread flour, the 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour and the 2 teaspoons of salt. Stir all these ingredients until thoroughly combined.

Step Three

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.

Step Four

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a dish towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step Five

Punch the dough down and shape it into a round loaf. Dust a baking sheet with cornmeal and place the loaf on the sheet. Cover it with a dish towel and let it rise again until it has doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step Six

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap it on the bottom. Let the bread cool before slicing it.

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