FOOD NEWS
The Simple Tool That Makes Homemade Bread Taller And Crustier
BY Julia Holland
While breadmakers today have plenty of modern appliances, one simple tool that dates back to the ancient Etruscans can help you achieve a crusty, tall bread boule — the cloche.
Meaning "bell" in French, a cloche is a bell-shaped ceramic structure that consists of a flat foundation and a tall, domed top into which you place bread dough before baking.
The ancient tool is designed and constructed to deliver a moist, tender crumb, crispy crust, and a decidedly taller loaf of bread.
Like what you'd do with cast iron pans or Dutch ovens, start by preheating the cloche to begin the baking process and facilitate the rise of your dough into a taller loaf.
A cloche is a closed container that allows for the trapping and collection of steam, providing a steamy cocoon that'll result in a springy, moist crumb and a crispy, crackly crust.
The cloche's ceramic material also ensures even heat distribution for even cooking, brings out the natural flavor of your food, and is easy to clean.