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French Bread Made with Whey

Servings 2 French Bread Loaves

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/8 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 C Whey or water 105 degrees F.
  • 1/2 tbsp salt
  • 4 C all purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for the bowl
  • water for spritzing the loaves room temp
  • 1 egg white for wash
  • 1 tbsp cold water for wash
  • 1 - 2 tbsp cornmeal for dusting the baking sheet

Instructions
 

  • Dissolve yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with a dough hook, in the warm whey.
  • Add 2 cups of the flour and mix on low until the flour is incorporated.
  • Add the salt and the rest of the flour, a little at a time until all is incorporated.
  • Turn the mixer off and allow the dough to rest 10 minutes.
  • Resume mixing and mix on med speed for 6 - 7 minutes.
  • Drizzle the olive oil in the bowl and coat the dough.
  • Cover with a towel or plastic and allow to rise 1 hour or until double in size.
  • Punch the dough down and divide into two equal parts.
  • Roll each piece of dough into a 14 inch long rope.
  • Line a baking sheet with a silpat mat or parchment paper and dust with the cornmeal.
  • Place the loaves on the baking sheet three inches apart.
  • Spritz the loaves with a fine mist of water and cover with plastic.
  • Allow the loaves to rise for one hour or until double in size.
  • Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
  • Carefully remove the plastic.
  • Slash the tops of each loaf lightly, three or 4 times down the length with a very sharp knife or a razor blade.
  • Combine the egg white with the tablespoon of cold water and lightly brush the tops and sides of the loaves.
  • Place the loaves in the oven and bake 10 minutes.
  • Turn the heat down to 375 degrees F. and continue baking until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped on the bottom. 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Remove from oven and allow to cool on a cooling rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

Recipe by: Connie Murray@Happybellyfoodie.com