Ingredients
500g strong white flour, plus extra for dusting
2 tsp salt
7g sachet fast-action yeast
3 tbsp olive oil
300ml water
Method
STEP 1Mix 500g strong white flour, 2 tsp salt and a 7g sachet of fast-action yeast in a large bowl.
STEP 2Make a well in the centre, then add 3 tbsp olive oil and 300ml water, and mix well. If the dough seems a little stiff, add another 1-2 tbsp water and mix well.
STEP 3Tip onto a lightly floured work surface and knead for around 10 mins.
STEP 4Once the dough is satin-smooth, place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with cling film. Leave to rise for 1 hour until doubled in size or place in the fridge overnight.
STEP 5Line a baking tray with baking parchment. Knock back the dough (punch the air out and pull the dough in on itself) then gently mould the dough into a ball.
STEP 6Place it on the baking parchment to prove for a further hour until doubled in size.
STEP 7Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas 7.
STEP 8Dust the loaf with some extra flour and cut a cross about 6cm long into the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
STEP 9Bake for 25-30 mins until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath. Cool on a wire rack.
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