Whole Wheat French Bread Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, yeast, salt, and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
• STEP 2.Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• STEP 3.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
• STEP 4.Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• STEP 5.Punch down the dough and shape it into a long loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• STEP 6.Make diagonal slashes on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
• STEP 7.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• STEP 8.Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
• STEP 9.Serve the whole wheat French bread with your favorite spreads or use it to make delicious sandwiches.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure the water is warm, but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
• To create a crusty exterior, place a pan of hot water in the bottom of the oven while baking.
• For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter or olive oil before baking.

Storage and Serving

• Store the bread in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To serve, slice the bread and enjoy it as is or toast it for a crispy texture.