Description
This easy no-knead whole wheat bread recipe yields a wholesome, hearty loaf with deep flavor developed through a long rise. Minimal effort is required, making it perfect for beginners and those looking for healthy, homemade artisan bread with a rich, nutty taste and chewy texture.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (240g) whole wheat flour
- 1 cup (125g) bread flour
- 1½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp instant yeast
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups (360ml) warm water
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients. In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, bread flour, salt, and instant yeast thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Add water and stir. Pour in the warm water and stir until the dough is fully combined; it will be sticky and rough—no kneading needed.
- First rise. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours until bubbly and doubled in size.
- Shape the dough. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf without kneading, preserving the air bubbles inside.
- Second rise. Let the shaped dough rest and rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, covered with a towel, until it puffs up.
- Preheat oven and Dutch oven. Place a Dutch oven with its lid inside the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes to ensure it is thoroughly heated.
- Bake covered. Carefully transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes to create steam that crisps the crust.
- Bake uncovered. Remove the lid and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the bread turns deep golden brown.
- Cool before slicing. Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely so the crumb sets properly before slicing.
Notes
- For added nutrition and texture, incorporate seeds such as sunflower or flax seeds into the dough before the first rise.
- Whole wheat flour absorbs more water than white flour; if the dough feels too dry or stiff, add a little extra water to achieve the right consistency.
- This bread is excellent for making toast and sandwiches due to its hearty and robust flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Whole Grain Bread