Basic Batard Bread Dough

Instructions

1. Prepare the surface: Lightly flour the surface to prevent sticking using a flouring tool or by evenly sprinkling flour.
2. Form dough into a ball: Turn the dough into a little ball and let it rest for 40 minutes to an hour.
3. Flip and stretch dough: Flip the dough over and gently stretch it out slightly, degassing it carefully without overworking.
4. Shape the batard: Fold the bottom side into the middle and press lightly to keep it light. Then fold one side into the middle, followed by the other side. Finally, fold the remaining side into the middle and press lightly.
5. Tie the dough: Use your fingers to pinch and tie the dough folds together in the middle to tighten the shape, repeating the motion twice.
6. Roll into package: Roll the dough into a tight package shape.
7. Place in basket: Place the shaped dough into a basket with the seam side on top to prepare for baking.