Indulge in the delightful world of French cuisine with this Easy Homemade French Bread recipe. Crusty on the outside, with a soft and chewy interior, this bread is a true delight for all the senses. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Cornmeal (for dusting)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Make a well in the center.
2. Pour warm water into the well and add olive oil. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together.
3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 450°F and place an empty baking pan on the bottom rack.
6. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a long loaf.
7. Sprinkle cornmeal onto a baking sheet and place the shaped dough on top. Cover it with a towel and allow it to rise again for about 30 minutes.
8. Use a sharp knife or razor blade to make diagonal slashes on the top of the loaf. This helps the bread expand while baking.
9. Carefully pour hot water into the preheated baking pan in the oven to create steam. This steam will give your bread a crisp crust.
10. Place the baking sheet with the dough in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Once baked, remove the French bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Serve this Easy Homemade French Bread warm or at room temperature with butter or your favorite spreads. Enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of freshly baked bread, and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills!