The next time you want warm crusty bread, give this recipe a try. The outside is crisp while the inside stays firm and moist. To get the true crust effect, start the dough the night before. The aroma of the fresh bread baking in the Dutch oven will make the house smell wonderful. When you open the Dutch oven, there's the perfect loaf of bread. This is a very easy bread recipe that can be customized with your favorite herbs too.
07With floured hands, gently shape the dough into a round loaf, making sure there's enough flour on the surface so the dough doesn't stick. Let the dough just sit there until your pot is preheated.
08Take the hot pot from the oven and gently place the dough into the pot.
09Cover with the lid and return to the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
10Remove the lid at that time and return the pot to the oven for another 10-15 minutes.
11Gently shake the loaf onto a cooling rack and enjoy the beautiful aroma. Give it a chance to cool before cutting into the loaf.