Remove the towel and dust the dough with flour, rock salt or poppy seeds — whatever you prefer. If using a domestic oven, set it to the hottest temperature; commercial ovens should be set to 240°C/450°F. Place the risen dough in the oven and sprinkle a little water on the bottom of the oven before closing the door — this will give a great crust to the bread. To test for doneness once baked, tap the bottom of the loaf: you should hear a distinct hollow sound, not a dull thud.
© 2001 John Campbell. All rights reserved.