January 27, 2016 - 3:05pm
Alternative to Dutch Ovens
I read here and there on the site that bakers are a bit tired of getting the same boule shape from baking breads in dutch ovens. Let me suggest 4 qt Romertopf clay bakers. Even if you buy them new they are cost competitive with dutch ovens purchased new but I bought both of mine at thrift stores for less than $10 each. They work as well as a dutch oven, clay can handle any heat, and they are oval so you can do a more oval shaped loaf. I proof my dough in oval reed baskets when I am baking in the Romertopfs. If you look at my Steel-cut oatmeal loaf here on thefreshloaf you can see the shape I get. You can also find some for sale on eBay or try craigslist. The cheaper ones made in Mexico are just fine.
Paul