Ingredients
- Bread flour or all-purpose flour – 3 cups
- Warm water – 1¼ cups
- Instant yeast – 1 teaspoon
- Fine salt – 1½ teaspoons
- Sugar – 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil or neutral cooking oil – 1 tablespoon
- White sesame seeds – ½ cup (for coating)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar.
Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and active.
Add the flour, salt, and oil.
Mix until everything comes together, then knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is soft, smooth, and slightly tacky to the touch.
2️⃣ First Proof
Lightly grease a bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat.
Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for 1½ to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
3️⃣ Shape the Loaf
Gently press the air out of the dough.
Form it into a round or oval loaf.
Lightly brush or mist the surface with water, then roll the dough in sesame seeds until fully coated.
4️⃣ Second Proof
Transfer the shaped dough to a lined baking tray.
Cover loosely and allow it to rest for 30–45 minutes until slightly puffed.
5️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 230°C / 450°F.
Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or blade.
Place a small heatproof dish of hot water in the oven to create steam.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the bread is deeply golden with a crisp crust.
Tips 🔥
- Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack for the best crunchy exterior.
- For deeper flavor, refrigerate the dough overnight and bake the next day.
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