Preshaping a Boule

Before shaping a boule or batard loaf, dough is often preshaped into a boule (ball). This preshaping allows the final shape to achieve a tighter surface tension, which helps the loaf maintain its shape through proofing and baking, and helps cuts to open nicely during baking.

This video demonstrates my method for preshaping a boule. A preshaped boule is typically covered and left to "bench rest" for 20 -- 30 minutes before the final shaping. This allows the dough to relax and renders it more cooperative for the final shaping process.

For more about bread baking, I invite you to visit my blog, Wild Yeast, at http://www.wildyeastblog.com/

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• bread
• shaping
• boule
• batard
• preshape
• round