The French are passionate about their bread – historically, the shaving of bakers’ heads for selling underweight bread was not uncommon. This loaf typifies French bread – a big, bold, hearty loaf full of flavour. Serve toasted or with cheese, it’s a must try!
Put all the ingredients except the water into a bowl, then slowly add the water and mix in with your hands until all the flour on the sides of the bowl has been incorporated.
Tip the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6 minutes.
Put the dough back in the bowl and leave for 2 hours.
Line a baking tray.
Tip the dough out onto your floured surface and shape into a ball, then slightly flatten with your hands and dust with flour.
Using a knife, mark out a square shape on top of the dough, put on the baking tray and leave to rise for 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/gas mark 7.
Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.