The Fresh Loaf

A Community of Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts.

when to NOT use Dutch oven?

powerdog's picture
powerdog

when to NOT use Dutch oven?

So far my bread adventures have been limited to whole grain sourdoughs, one loaf at a time. The Dutch oven, half hour with lid on, 15 minutes off, seems to produce good results. Just wondering if I'm missing something by relying on it all the time. (I'm OK with shape and diameter of D.O.)

BobBoule's picture
BobBoule

that if your brad comes out as you like it then you should continue to use your DO. The only time I would consider not using my DO is because I have to make a baguette that won't fit in my DO.

bread1965's picture
bread1965

Like you, I get great consistent results with my DO. When I try to shape battards, not so much. I haven't mastered the art of shaping and blooming a battard in the oven. I would like to. It's a challenge for me. And with time I'll figure it out, one loaf at a time.. this is how I'm approaching this issue.. there are no wrong ways forward here..

jiannabakes's picture
jiannabakes

I am still very new to baking bread and I was wondering if any of you know of some alternative methods of baking bread without using a DO? 

phaz's picture
phaz

Try a metal bowl big enough to cover the dough with enough room for expansion. I bought a set of cheap thin mixing bowls from a restaurant supply place many moons ago. Cheap, easy to find and does hold the steam well.