Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and yeast together until mixed. Stir in the water until a chunky, thick dough forms. If needed, add a few more teaspoons of water, just enough to get the dough barely wet throughout. The dough must form a sort of unfinished ball, wet and sticky but in no way liquid. If so, add just a little bit more of flour, but not too much. Cover the mixing bowl with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest overnight (about 12 hours) at room temperature.

Step 2

In the morning, preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a 4 to 6-quart heavy covered pot (cast iron, enamel or ceramic) inside, until you reach the desired temperature, or ideally for 30 minutes.*

Step 3

Once the oven is hot, remove the covered pot, and carefully line with parchment paper (be careful, it’s hot!). Gently scrape the dough from the bowl, shape onto a ball with your hands and place in the pot (the dough will look a little bit sticky and messy but it’s normal, just let it be). Sprinkle some flour on top, and place in the oven with the lid on for 30 minutes. Remove the lid, and bake for another 10-15 minutes to get the outside crust golden brown and crispy. Transfer onto a cooling rack, and let cool. It’s done!