Artisan Bread

http://www.artisanbreadinfive.com/ This was one of the first sites I looked at when I started making artisan breads. Here is the basic recipe that I use: 1c warm water; 2 packages of yeast; mix and proof for 5 or 10 minutes. Add 1 1/2c warm milk (can be sour milk past expiration date); 1/4c oil ( I use canola, but when making an Italian bread go for a good olive oil); 1/4c honey; 1T sea salt.; Mix well and add:2c whole wheat flour and mix well. Add 1c whole wheat flour; 3 1/2c white flour; and 1c optional item(s)but not more than 1c! Raise 1 1/2 hours; make into two or three loaves and raise another hour. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes. Options are; white chocolate chips and pecans; white chocolate chips and cranraisins; chocolate chips; pecans; sunflower seeds; sundried tomatoes and green olives (chopped); grated cheese; grated cheddar and chopped jalapenos; 1T Pampered Chef Sun Dried Tomato Herb Dipping Seasoning. I will also add 1c oatmeal when adding just herbs. The bread is a bit denser however. I am thinking of making oat flour to add in place of the white flour. Now the challenge is to find new and exciting things to add!