Flour + Water + Yeast + Salt =

My first Daring Bakers Challenge! This month's challenge was Julia Child's French Bread. The recipe is long, but in the length are the details. You can see the entire recipe here.

Following the instructions carefully, it came out well. I started at about 10:30 am and cut into the bread 9.5 hours later... but little of that time is active. Mostly, you just let the yeast work for you! I used my Kitchenaid Mixer to knead the dough for me - making it even easier!

I think this would be a great intro to working with yeast if you havent yet - the detail in the recipe makes it simple - Julia walks you through every step and gives reasons why you do things the way you do - for me, this is helpful in understanding the process.

I made two boules. My slashes were definitely not as deep as they should be... The bread was great though! It was a tad salty tasting the first day, but I froze the second loaf and when it was thawed it was PERFECT. I think letting the bread hang out for a little while helped.

I served the second loaf at the dinner my sisters, brother, and I made for my grandpa (Christmas gift). Bacon-wrapped Filet, Mashed Sweet Potatos, Bella-Beans, Bittersweet Mousse, and the perfect match - simple french bread. I asked my sister how she liked the bread and she said "its so good!! Where did you get it?" Homemade yeast bread always impresses ;)

I loved this challenge and cant wait to see what March will bring!