Preparation

1.In a large bowl, mix the wheat flour, dry yeast, sugar and salt.

2.Gradually add the lukewarm water and knead everything into a smooth dough. If desired, add the oil and continue kneading until fully incorporated.

3.Place the dough on a lightly floured work surface and knead vigorously for about 10-15 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

4.Return the dough to the bowl, cover with a clean tea towel and let rest in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

5.Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Line a baking pan with baking paper.

6.Knead the risen dough again briefly and shape it into a loaf. Place the dough in the prepared baking pan.

7.Cut the dough diagonally several times with a sharp knife to give the bread room to rise while baking.

8.Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

9.Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before cutting.

Serve the freshly baked bread with butter, cold cuts, cheese or other toppings of your choice. Enjoy this delicious homemade bread with Type 550 wheat flour! Bon Appetit!