15 ounces bread flour (about 3 cups plus 2 1/2 tablespoons, plus more for sprinkling)
2 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
12 ounces water (lukewarm)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt; stir with a spoon or whisk to blend.
Add the water and olive oil to the flour mixture and stir for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until well combined. The dough will be soft. Sprinkle a few teaspoons of flour over the dough.
Cover the bowl with a sheet of plastic wrap and let it stand in a draft-free place for about 1 1/2 hours. Or place it in the oven with the light on (or “proofing” setting) and let it stand for about 1 hour.
Grease an 8 1/2-by-4 1/2-inch loaf pan.
Scrape the dough into the loaf pan and sprinkle with about 1 teaspoon of flour. Cover with a tea towel and let the dough stand in a draft-free place for about 30 to 45 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 425.
Bake the bread for 25 minutes. Transfer the bread to a rack and let it cool.