(Flour. Salt. Yeast. Water. Nothing else.)
Ingredients
- 3 cups (375g) unfortified all-purpose or bread flour
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1¼ cups (300ml) warm water (around 105–110°F / 40°C)
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.
Resources for Hard Times
If you’re looking for practical help, food support, or community resources, you can visit the Salt, Ink & Soul Resources Page.
Salt,Ink, & Soul 