Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast and salt.
- Add the Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil and water, and mix with a wooden spoon or your hand until no dry flour remains. The dough will be shaggy, wet and sticky; that’s correct.
- Cover the bowl with cling film or a damp tea towel and leave at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours, until doubled in size and covered in bubbles.
- Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Fold it over itself a few times, then shape it into a rough ball.
- Place the dough on a sheet of floured baking paper, cover loosely, and leave to rise for another 1-2 hours until puffy.
- About 30 minutes before baking, place a heavy lidded pot (cast-iron or enamelled) into the oven and preheat to 230C.
- Carefully lower the dough, still on its baking paper, into the hot pot. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for a further 15 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown.
- Lift the bread out of the pot and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Storage: keep cut-side down at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make-ahead: the dough can rise in the fridge overnight instead of at room temperature for a more flexible schedule. Freezing: wrap the cooled, whole loaf tightly and freeze for up to a month. Serving suggestion: warm, torn by hand, with extra Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil for dipping.
