topic Re: Question for bread bakers... in Kitchen

Question for bread bakers...

house_cat — Sat, 14 Sep 2024 12:54:07 GMT

I've been making sourdough boules with my round LC Dutch oven, with increasing success. I use a round banneton for shaping them overnight.

However, I would like to buy a batard shaped banneton and I don't know if I can make that shape loaf in a round Dutch oven. Should I be looking to purchase an oval shape?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

Re: Question for bread bakers...

brandiwine — Sat, 14 Sep 2024 13:14:29 GMT

Congratulations on your bread making success! The shape of your baker will determine the shape of your loaf. I have had success using a stoneware baker in an oval if I want that shape. I also have an oval enamel pot that works great. I hope that helps.

Re: Question for bread bakers...

Sooner — Sat, 14 Sep 2024 13:21:56 GMT

I believe Emile Henry makes ceramic ones in the shape you want. I have a round one (like a red ball) that does a fantastic job of baking. It isn't heavy either.

Re: Question for bread bakers...

gardenman — Sat, 14 Sep 2024 23:24:52 GMT

As long as your loaf isn't longer than Dutch oven is wide it should bake fine and stay oblong. It'll round out a bit, but no more than if baked on a stone.

Re: Question for bread bakers...

AuntMame — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 04:33:32 GMT

There are a couple oval cast-iron Dutch ovens available that can be used for baking oval and long loaves. One is the Golden Spike Oval Roaster from Camp Chef, available for about $100 at Walmart. Alas, it appears to be out-of-stock online everywhere.

Another is the Challenger Bread Pan, but that's $300. I've read and seen lots of great reviews of that. But again it's $300.