
There is something deeply satisfying about pulling a crackling, golden loaf out of a Dutch oven, especially when you made it with just four pantry staples. Flour, yeast, salt, and warm water are all it takes β no additives, no preservatives, and absolutely nothing artificial hiding in the ingredient list. Store-bought bread is one of the sneakiest sources of unnecessary flavor additives, so baking your own is the cleanest way to know exactly what you're eating. The long, slow rise does all the heavy lifting here, developing a complex, tangy flavor that tastes like it came from a proper bakery without any shortcuts. A screaming-hot Dutch oven creates that signature blistered crust and open, chewy crumb that makes every slice genuinely impressive. The technique is forgiving and hands-off β you stir, you wait, you bake β making it approachable even if you've never baked bread before. Just be sure to let it cool fully before slicing, or the inside won't set properly and you'll lose that beautiful texture you worked all day for.
Fig 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 β10 servings




In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, and 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 β about 1 minute. The dough will look rough and uneven; that is correct.
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for 8 to 18 hours, until the surface is dotted with bubbles and the dough has roughly doubled in size.
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!
