
There is something deeply satisfying about pulling a golden, crackling loaf out of the oven, especially when you made it with just four simple pantry ingredients. During pregnancy, knowing exactly what went into your food matters, and this recipe keeps things beautifully transparent β just flour, yeast, salt, and water, with zero additives or preservatives to second-guess. The long, slow overnight rise does all the heavy lifting, so there is no strenuous kneading involved, which is a genuine bonus when energy levels are unpredictable. That extended fermentation also develops a complex, slightly tangy flavor that makes the finished loaf taste like it came from a proper bakery. Baking it inside a preheated Dutch oven traps steam and creates that signature crackling crust with a soft, airy crumb inside β the kind of texture that makes every slice worth waiting for. Letting it cool fully before cutting is the hardest part, but it ensures the crumb sets up perfectly so you get clean, beautiful slices every time. Slather it with butter, pile on avocado, or just tear into it warm β however you serve it, this is honest, wholesome bread you can feel genuinely good about eating.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, and kosher salt. Add the water and stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until no dry flour remains and a shaggy, sticky dough forms β about 1 minute. The dough will look rough and wet; that is correct.
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours, until the surface is dotted with bubbles and the dough has roughly doubled in size.
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