May 30, 2011 - 10:28pm
First Pugliese - Thanks to SylviaH!
I made my first Pugliese loaf today with a LOT of help from SylviaH (thank you so much Sylvia). I originally made two loaves but had an oven problem and by the time I made it to a working oven, one of the loaves had over proofed and stuck the the towel. I used a shallow pan with a fan folded towel and water for steam and also dipped my fingers into a cup of water and flicked it into the oven at the beginning of the bake since, in my rush out the door, I forgot my mister. The loaf is all AP flour, I didn't have any durum on hand.
The crust is thin and crispy with a little bit of chew. The crumb is light and very soft, the largest holes are about 3/4 in. This is my absolute best loaf EVER and will be a staple in our house from now on.
What a challenge to have to change ovens and yet you still managed to get a beautiful loaf. Your crust looks very crispy with a nice open crumb and the shape is perfect. It's no fun when the proofing loaf sticks! If I have to slow down the proofing of a loaf, it helps me to place it into a plastic bag, put it into the refrigerator and time it so has proofed enough for bake time.
I'm glad I could help and your very welcome!
Happy Baking,
Sylvia
Looks terrific! Pugliese is one of my favorites.
FF