Classic Country-Style Hearth Loaf Part 1

Directions

1. 1

   4 oz Water 1/2 ts Dry yeast 3/4 c Flour 20 oz Water 1/2 ts Yeast 6 1/4 c Flour 1 tb Sea salt Make the Poolish: Mix 4 oz water and 1/2 teaspo

2. 2

   Let stand for 1 minute, then stir with a wooden spoon to dissolve yeast

3. 3

   Add the flour

4. 4

   Stir until the consistency of a thick batter

5. 5

   Continue stirring for about 100 strokes or until the strands of gluten come off the spoon when you press the back of the spoon against the b

6. 6

   Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula

7. 7

   Cover with a clean damp towel or plastic wrap, and place in a moderately warm, draft-free place until mixture is bubbly and has increased in

8. 8

   The longer the poolish sits, the more time it has to become vigorous and permeated with the unmistakable aroma of wheaty fermentation