The Fresh Loaf

A Community of Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts.

Another Newbie Here

old baker's picture
old baker

Another Newbie Here

Been lurking here for a while and decided to sign up.  My main interest (first) is to produce the perfect loaf of French bread.  I loved it when I was stationed in Vietnam and again when I visited France.  After mastering that, my next task is to duplicate the pumpernickel that my German grandmother bought at the farmer's market in South Philadelphia MANY years ago.  Hope what I bake duplicates what I remember from years ago.

Danni3ll3's picture
Danni3ll3

Can you describe what you mean by the "perfect loaf of French" bread? There are many out there but your description might help narrow down what you are trying to recreate. You will find lots of wonderful people willing to help you on your journey!

old baker's picture
old baker

I really don't know exactly what I mean by the perfect loaf.  Maybe it exists only in my mind.  But I remember the bread I ate in Vietnam 50 years ago and in France 30 years ago had a paper-thin, crisp crust and moist, chewy inside.  I've been trying various on-line recipes and haven't nailed it yet.  The closest I've come was using the King Arthur recipe.  But it's fun trying and I'll get there.  This site has lots of information that I haven't read yet.  Looking forward to reading and experimenting.

Ru007's picture
Ru007

I totally agree, its fun trying to get to the "perfect loaf". My experience is that the "perfect loaf" is a moving target. When I first joined TFL about a year ago, I had a clear picture in my mind what i wanted, now that picture is completely different. Its been a great journey. 

Are you looking for a sourdough or instant yeast (or both) recipe? 

Good luck with your experimenting, I look forward to seeing some of your bakes here. 

Ru

old baker's picture
old baker

I think you described it perfectly; the perfect loaf in a moving target.

 

I should add that my moniker means that I'm old and I bake.  I'm not a longtime baker.  Besides, "New Baker" was already taken when I registered.