Baking delicious artisan bread varieties takes practice and a few basic tools. Each step in the bread-making process requires both a steady hand and some specialized kitchen equipment to get consistent results. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Measure
Measuring spoons used for artisan breads include measurements for smidgen, dash and pinch to accommodate older recipes. Artisan bread baking is a mix of art and science, and proper measurements make it easier to get things right.
Mix
Vertical mixers are popular in the artisan bread baking world because of their ease of use and ability to develop gluten without ripping or tearing the dough. Home artisan bakers often use bread paddle attachments on home mixers or mix their ingredients in a bread machine.
Knead
Large wooden cutting boards or wooden-top tables are used to flour and work dough to proper consistency for each variety. Artisan bread shapes and designs require working on the hard flour-covered surface to develop a taught outer layer for a crisp crust.
Rise
Artisan breads are full of yeast and require time to rise and proof. This is usually done in a large greased mixing bowl or a linen-lined basket. Linen-lined baskets allow for expansion while drawing some moisture from the dough's surface and creating a bumpy texture common in artisan loaves.
Slice
Vents and designs are cut into artisan breads for steam release while baking and easy identification once cooked. Artisan bakers use a sharp knife or razor blade to cut these slits into the raw dough.
Bake
The surface upon which bread is baked plays a large role in its final texture. Artisan bread bakers use baking stones and wood-fired ovens for a closer connection to the old-world bread varieties they are trying to produce.
Tags: artisan bread, Artisan bread, bread baking, bread varieties