Leidenheimer French Bread Recipe
Leidenheimer French Bread is an iconic New Orleans classic that's loved for its crunchy crust and chewy center. It's perfect for making sandwiches, toast, or even as croutons in salads. All you need is some basic ingredients and a little bit of time, and you'll have a delicious loaf of Leidenheimer French Bread.
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Servings: 8 people
Calories: 250kcal
Equipment
- wooden spoon
- Electric mixer
- plastic wrap
- bowl
- baking dish
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour/Bread flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 tsp Vegetable shortening
- 3 tsp dry yeast granules
- 3 tsp salt
- 3 tsp granulated sugar
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the yeast starts to foam.
- Add in the shortening and stir until completely combined.
- Gradually add in bread flour while stirring with a wooden spoon or electric mixer on low speed. Once all of the flour is incorporated, add in the salt.
- Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it is soft and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow to rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces and shape each piece into a log shape. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and allow to rise for 45 minutes or until doubled in size. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- When the oven is preheated, uncover the loaves. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crusty.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Be sure to use bread flour for this, as all-purpose flour will not provide the same structure and texture.
- If desired, you can brush the loaves with an eggwash before baking for a glossy finish.
- You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to give the bread extra flavor.
- For a crispier crust, you can brush the loaves with melted butter or olive oil before baking.
- To give your loaves a more rustic look, sprinkle some cornmeal on the parchment paper before placing the dough on it.
- This bread is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Adding in some diced onions and garlic will give the bread an extra depth of flavor and a fragrant aroma.
- For even more deliciousness, top the loaves with some grated cheese before baking!
- Try using Leidenheimer French Bread for sandwiches, toast, or even as croutons in salads. The possibilities are endless!
- If you don't have a stand mixer, you can mix the dough by hand. Just be sure to knead it until it's soft and elastic.