Spice Free Dutch Oven No-Knead Bread
There is something almost magical about pulling a crackling, golden loaf out of a screaming-hot Dutch oven, especially when the ingredient list is this short and this clean. Four humble pantry staples — flour, yeast, salt, and water — come together into a bread with a shatteringly crisp crust and an open, chewy crumb that rivals anything from a bakery. For anyone navigating a spice-free lifestyle, store-bought breads can be a minefield of hidden seasonings, herb blends, and "natural flavors" that are anything but straightforward. This recipe sidesteps all of that completely, because there is simply nothing in here to worry about. The long, slow overnight rest does all the heavy lifting, developing deep flavor without a single added seasoning beyond salt. No kneading, no stand mixer, no complicated technique — just time, heat, and a good heavy pot. Once you slice into that first warm loaf, plain and perfect, you will wonder why you ever bought bread at all.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ¼ tsp instant yeast
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°f / 43°c)
Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, and kosher salt. Pour in the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until no dry flour remains and a shaggy, sticky dough forms — about 1 minute. The dough will look rough and uneven; that is correct.
- 2
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a plate and let the dough rest at room temperature for 8–18 hours, until the surface is dotted with bubbles and the dough has roughly doubled in size.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!