The Most Basic Bread

(Flour. Salt. Yeast. Water. Nothing else.)

Ingredients

Instructions

Mix the Basics
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Pour in the warm water and stir with a spoon or your hands until it forms a shaggy, sticky dough. Don’t overthink it—just bring it together.
Rest and Wait
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it sit at room temperature for 12–18 hours. Time is your secret ingredient here—patience transforms the dough into something alive.
Shape and Rest Again
When the dough has doubled in size and is dotted with bubbles, scrape it onto a floured surface. Gently fold it over a few times, shaping it into a round loaf. Place it on parchment paper or a lightly floured towel, cover again, and let it rest for 1–2 more hours.
Preheat and Bake
Place a heavy pot with a lid (like a Dutch oven) into your oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C). When hot, carefully place your dough inside, cover, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the crust turns a deep golden brown and becomes hard.
Cool and Remember
Let it cool before slicing—if you can resist the temptation. The crust will crackle, the inside will steam. Tear off a piece, hold it warm in your hands, and remember that this is what survival tastes like.

Notes

If you only have instant yeast, reduce to ¼ teaspoon.
Whole wheat or rye flour can replace up to one-third of the white flour for more depth.
The flavor deepens overnight, just like the memory of meals that once held families together.

This bread doesn’t ask for luxury—just time, trust, and a little hunger to remind you what’s real.

If you’re looking for practical help, food support, or community resources, you can visit the Salt, Ink & Soul Resources Page.

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