Step 1

In a large mixing bowl add the warm water and yeast. If preferred add sugar or honey. Mix well and cover. Let proof for 5-8 minutes.

Step 2

The yeast and water mixture should be puffed up and foamy.

Step 3

Add the flour and optional salt if preferred. Mix well with a rubber spatula or danish whisk. The dough will be very soft and sticky.

Step 4

Cover and set the bowl in a warm area on the kitchen counter. Let proof for a minimum of 3 hours or overnight about 6-8 hours if preferred.

Step 5

The bread dough will double or triple in size.

Step 6

Preheat the oven to 425°F and boil about 2-3 cups of water.

Step 7

On the kitchen countertop sprinkle flour to prevent sticking.

Step 8

Grab the mixing bowl and with a rubber spatula scrap the dough onto the floured kitchen countertop.

Step 9

With your hands dusted with extra flour shape the dough into a ball.

Step 10

Grab your sheet pan or cast iron skillet lined with parchment paper.

Step 11

Place the bread dough onto the sheet pan or skillet. With a knife make a decorative slit (optional).

Step 12

When the oven is to temperature carefully place the cake pan with the boiling water onto the bottom rack.

Step 13

Place the sheet pan or skillet with bread dough onto the top rack of the oven.

Step 14

Bake for 30 minutes then remove the cake pan or water bath.

Step 15

Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy.

Step 16

Remove from the oven onto a cooling rack. Let cool for 30 minutes.

Step 17

Cut into thick slices and serve with butter. Enjoy.