Submitted by blackhorse16a on December 24, 2009 - 10:45am

Overnight proof

When retarding a shaped loaf overnight, what kind of container do you use?

If I use a couche, I get a skin on the loaf; if I use an oiled bowl, the loaf loses shape and is a bit slippery for my taste. Any other ideas?

Bags will solve your issue

As noted in a previous response, boules can be placed in floured bannetons or brotforms, then placed in a small plastic bag and retarded overnight in the refrigerator.  If you don't have a banneton or brotform, then use a high quality linen cloth, flour it thoroughly, and use a small colander as a makeshift banneton.

Batards are placed on a narrow strip of parchment, then moved to a couche on a baking sheet.  The baking sheet goes into a big plastic bag and into the refrigerator.

Plastic bags are reusable and your dough will not dry out nor will it be oily.  Try it!  It works!

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