If you're looking for a foolproof way to make homemade bread, you can't go wrong with baking it in a Romertopf. This German-style clay pot is designed to evenly distribute heat, resulting in a perfectly cooked loaf of bread every time. Not only is it easy to use, but it also helps the bread hold in all of its flavor and moisture. So, let's take a look at what you'll need and how to use this unique baking tool.
Ingredients
350g of all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
7g of active dry yeast
1 teaspoon of sugar
2 teaspoons of salt
240ml of warm water
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 Romertopf clay pot
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil. Mix the ingredients until they form a shaggy dough. Knead the dough for 6-8 minutes, until it forms a smooth and elastic ball. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 1 hour.
Step 2: Preheat the Romertopf
While the dough is rising, preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the Romertopf in the oven for 30 minutes, to allow it to preheat. Once it has preheated, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, knead it for 2-3 minutes. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in the center of the Romertopf. Cover the pot with its lid and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Place the Romertopf in the oven and bake the bread for 40-45 minutes. The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let the bread cool in the pot for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
One serving of this baked bread contains approximately 287 Calories, 5.3g of Fat, 53.8g of Carbohydrates, and 8.6g of Protein. It is also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This bread can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite condiments.