For the first time my mom-in-law came to USA for much needed vacation. She enjoyed many things about this country except restaurant because, she doesn't eat onion and garlic. I wanted her to taste at least once this bread bowl at Panera or Boudin. However, due to diet restrictions it never clicked. So I thought of trying it at home. Fortunately it turned out so very well. When i pulled bread bowls out of oven my happiness knew no boundaries, I was so proud of myself.
Once you try this do let me know about your experience.
Ingredients -
1. 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeat.
2. 2 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
3. 2 teaspoons salt
4. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
5. 7 cups all purpose flour
6. 1 tablespoon cornmeal
7. 3 tablespoon milk
Directions -
1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Add salt, oil and 4 cups of flour to the yeast mixture; beat well. Stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well with an electric mixer at medium speed after each addition.
3. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6 minutes. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough, in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 40 minutes.
4. Punch dough down, and divide into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a 4 inch round loaf. place loaves on lightly greased baking sheets sprinkled with cornmeal. Cover and let rise in a warm place, free from drafts, until doubled in bulk, about 35 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly brush the loaves with half of milk.
6. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Brush with remaining milk and bake 10-15 more minutes or until golden. Cool on wire racks.
7. To make bowls; Cut a 1/2 inch thick slice from the top of each loaf; scoop out centers, leaving 3/4 inch thick shells. Fill bread bowls with hot soup and serve immediately.
I filled it creamy tomato soup and added some croutons.
