Baguettes

This is better than I can buy in stores. I am told that if you spritz with water while loaves are rising and early in the cooking process that it gets a heavier crust but thats too much work for me. I think it is one I wrote down from Frugal Gormet. I mix the water, yeast, salt, oats and some of the flour in a mixing bowl. Slowly adding more flour until it cleans the bowl and most of the flour is worked in. (I have bread thingys, without them you dump it out earlier and keep working in flour) When it is smooth, oil the bottom of a big bowl, put the dough in and turn so that the oiled surface is on top. Cover with cling wrap or a damp cloth. Let rise for 5 or 6 hours. Form loaves. (Four long, thin ones or 2 long fat ones) I use the supports with holes in them for french loaves. Let them rise again. (dont forget to spritz) Cook at a high heat for 15-20 minutes, depending on loaf size. (dont forget to spritz) I have also used this dough for breadsticks which were a lot of work but impressed the heck out of people. Oh yes, dont cover these loaves with plastic or anything. They dry from the outside in. By day 3 or 4 you need to toast them. Brush with garlic and olive oil and enjoy! Posted to FOODWINE Digest by Esther Czekalski <esther_czekalski@BAYNETWORKS.COM> on Apr 6, 1998