What Makes Crusty Bread?
Crusty bread is achieved through a combination of high heat and moisture. The high heat causes the water in the dough to turn into steam, which in turn creates a crispy crust on the outside of the bread. Additionally, the crust is formed due to the Maillard reaction, a chemical process where sugars and amino acids in the bread combine and brown, creating a rich and flavorful crust. The use of a dutch oven or steam pan during the baking process also helps to retain moisture, resulting in a crusty exterior and a soft, chewy interior.