Boules

To shape a boule (ball), start with a rounded ball of dough and press along the bottom of the dough with the sides of your hands to stretch the top of the loaf tight and smooth. This will create creases in the bottom of the loaf; turn it over and pinch these together to seal. Turn it right side up to proof; you can let it proof in a cloth-lined basket called a bânneton, which helps the loaf hold its shape as it rises.