Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica Recipe

Are you looking for a bread recipe that is quick and easy to make, yet has a rustic and artisanal feel? Look no further than this Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can create a delicious loaf of bread that will impress your family and friends.

But what exactly is Pain De Campagne? In French, it translates to “country bread,” and it typically consists of a mixture of unbleached all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour, giving it a slightly nutty and hearty flavor. It’s often made with a sourdough starter, which adds complexity and depth to the flavor profile. Pane Rustica, on the other hand, is a rustic Italian bread that is similar in texture and flavor to Pain De Campagne.

In this recipe, we’ll be combining the best of both worlds to create a bread that is both flavorful and easy to make. So dust off your apron and get ready to impress your taste buds with this Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica

If you’re looking for a bread recipe that’s quick, easy, and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This artisan pain de campagne/pane rustica recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy freshly baked bread without spending hours in the kitchen.

So why will you love this recipe? First of all, it uses a combination of unbleached all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour, which gives it a rustic and hearty texture. The addition of kosher salt and cornmeal also adds a nice crunch and flavor to the bread.

Secondly, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful loaf of bread ready to be enjoyed. The dough can be made in a stand mixer or by hand, and it requires minimal kneading.

Lastly, this bread is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with a smear of butter. It also pairs well with soups and stews, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Overall, this quick and easy artisan pain de campagne/pane rustica recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy freshly baked bread without spending hours in the kitchen. So why not give it a try and taste the deliciousness for yourself?

Ingredient List

No need to be a master baker to create this rustic loaf.

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this quick and easy artisan pain de campagne/pane rustica recipe:

1/4 cup cornmeal, for dusting
3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 cups water, at room temperature

This recipe uses a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour to give the bread a hearty flavor and texture. The kosher salt adds just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the flavors of the bread. Water is the only liquid used in this recipe, and it should be at room temperature to activate the yeast. Don’t forget to dust your surface with cornmeal to prevent the dough from sticking.

The Recipe How-To

The perfect crusty exterior – crispy, golden and slightly chewy.

Now that we have covered the ingredient list, it’s time to get our hands dirty and start baking our Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica.

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of unbleached all-purpose flour, 1 cup of whole wheat flour, 1 tsp of kosher salt, and 1 tsp of instant yeast. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Pour in 1 1/4 cups of lukewarm water and mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shaping

After the dough has risen, take it out of the bowl and shape it into a round or oval loaf.

Place the loaf on a baking sheet that has been dusted with cornmeal. Cover and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Second Rise

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Using a sharp knife, score the top of the loaf a few times to allow it to expand while baking.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and has a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.

Step 5: Cooling

Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Congratulations, you have just baked your very own Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica!

Substitutions and Variations

Slice it up and serve it with your favorite cheese and a glass of wine.

Looking to switch things up with this recipe? Here are some substitutions and variations you can try.

– Flour: You can experiment with different types of flour to achieve different flavors and textures. Try using bread flour for a chewier texture or rye flour for a denser, nuttier taste. You can also mix in some spelt flour for a unique nutty flavor.

– Salt: If you don’t have kosher salt, you can use sea salt or table salt instead. Just make sure to adjust the amount accordingly as different types of salt have different levels of saltiness.

– Water: You can use filtered water or even beer or milk for a richer flavor. However, keep in mind that using milk may affect the texture of the bread.

– Cornmeal: If you don’t have cornmeal, you can use semolina or polenta instead. They both have a similar texture and will add a nice crunch to the crust.

– Garlic Bread: For a flavorful twist, add some minced garlic and chopped parsley to the dough before baking. You can also brush the bread with garlic-infused olive oil for an extra garlicky kick.

– Cheese Bread: Add some grated Parmesan or other hard cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top of the bread before baking for a crispy cheesy crust.

– Levain: To add some complexity to the flavor, you can use a sourdough starter or levain instead of instant yeast. This will give the bread a tangier taste and a chewier texture.

– Pain de Campagne: Want to make a classic French country bread? Replace the whole wheat flour with more unbleached all-purpose flour and add some rye flour to the mix. You can also add some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

– Pane Rustica: For a rustic Italian bread, use a mix of unbleached all-purpose flour and semolina flour. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant flavor.

Remember, baking is all about experimentation and finding what works best for you. So don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things!

Serving and Pairing

The texture of the bread is light and airy, with a firm and satisfying crust.

Now that you’ve made this delicious artisan pain de campagne/pane rustica bread, it’s time to serve and pair it with some delectable accompaniments. This bread is perfect for a hearty sandwich or can be enjoyed on its own with a smear of butter or a drizzle of olive oil.

One of my favorite ways to serve this bread is to slice it thickly and toast it. Then, I rub a clove of garlic on the toasty surface and drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over it. This garlic bread is so flavorful, you won’t be able to resist having more.

Another great way to serve this bread is to make a cheese board with some of your favorite cheeses, cured meats, and fruits. The nutty and rustic flavor of this bread pairs perfectly with a variety of cheeses, such as brie, camembert, or gouda.

If you’re looking to make a sandwich, this bread is perfect for a hearty and filling option. You can make a classic French dip sandwich with thinly sliced roast beef and au jus or go for a vegetarian option with roasted vegetables and hummus.

For a sweet pairing, you can enjoy this bread with a spread of jam, honey, or Nutella. You can even make French toast with this bread for a decadent brunch option.

No matter how you choose to enjoy this bread, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, go ahead and get creative with your pairings and enjoy this delicious artisan pain de campagne/pane rustica bread!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

This bread is perfect for sandwiches, soups, or just slathered in butter.

This artisan pain de campagne/pane rustica recipe can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining. You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, shape it into a loaf, and let it come to room temperature before baking.

If you have any leftover bread, store it in a paper bag or wrap it loosely in a clean kitchen towel. Avoid storing the bread in plastic as it can cause it to become soggy. This bread will keep for a few days at room temperature, but it’s best to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for longer.

To reheat the bread, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also slice the bread and toast it in a toaster or on a grill pan for a crispy texture.

This bread is also perfect for freezing. Simply wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature before reheating. The texture may not be exactly the same as freshly baked bread, but it will still taste delicious.

Remember to always store your bread properly to ensure it stays fresh and tasty for longer.

Tips for Perfect Results

Impress your dinner guests with this homemade bread – they'll never know how easy it was to make! — Impress your dinner guests with this homemade bread – they’ll never know how easy it was to make!

Now that we have gone through the ingredients and recipe how-to, let’s talk about some tips to ensure perfect results every time you make this Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica Recipe.

1. Use a scale: Weighing the ingredients is more accurate than measuring by volume. If you don’t have a scale, make sure to fluff your flour before gently scooping it into your measuring cup to avoid packing it in.

2. Experiment with flour ratios: While this recipe calls for a mix of unbleached all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour, you can play around with the ratios to get the flavor and texture you desire. Adding more whole wheat flour will result in a denser loaf, while increasing the all-purpose flour will create a lighter crumb.

3. Use cornmeal: Sprinkling cornmeal on the baking sheet before placing the dough on it will prevent the bread from sticking and give it a crispy crust.

4. Let the dough rise: Make sure to give your dough enough time to rise, at least an hour in a warm, draft-free place. This will allow the yeast to work its magic and create air pockets for a light and fluffy texture.

5. Score the bread: Use a sharp knife or razor blade to make shallow cuts on the surface of the bread before baking. This will help the bread expand in the oven and give it an artisanal look.

6. Use steam: Adding steam to the oven during the first few minutes of baking will help create a crispy crust. You can do this by placing a tray of water on the bottom rack or spraying water into the oven with a spray bottle.

7. Let it cool: Resist the urge to slice into the bread right away – letting it cool for at least 30 minutes will allow the crumb to set and prevent it from becoming gummy.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a perfect loaf of Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica every time.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica Recipe is a must-try for all bread lovers out there. This recipe is perfect for those who want to make a delicious and rustic bread without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of unbleached all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and kosher salt creates a delicious and flavorful dough that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is easy to follow and will give you perfect results every time. By using the right ingredients and following the recipe instructions, you will be able to create a beautiful and rustic loaf that will impress your friends and family.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. You can experiment with different flours, add herbs or spices, or even cheese to create a unique and delicious bread that you and your loved ones will enjoy.

In summary, this Quick and Easy Artisan Pain De Campagne/Pane Rustica Recipe is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to make a delicious and rustic bread without spending too much time in the kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Get your apron on and start baking!