French Baguette

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Recipe

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups	all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups	warm water
2 1/4 teaspoons	active dry yeast
2 teaspoons	salt

Instructions

1. 1 In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. 2 In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. 3 Add the yeast mixture to the flour and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4 Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5 Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6 Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces.
7. 7 Shape each piece into a long baguette, about 12 inches in length.
8. 8 Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. 9 Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
10. 10 Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
11. 11 Make several diagonal slashes on the top of each baguette with a sharp knife.
12. 12 Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam.
13. 13 Bake the baguettes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
14. 14 Allow the baguettes to cool on a wire rack before serving.