What is a banneton or proofing basket?

A banneton, or proofing basket, supports bread dough during its second riseafter the loaf has been shaped, preventing the dough from flattening as thegluten relaxes. Made from 100% natural unfinished rattan, it allows the surfaceof the dough to dry while proofing, forming a skin that results in a crispier crustand more dramatic results from scoring the bread before baking. To bake yourloaf, invert the basket so the dough falls gently onto a peel or baking pan, scorethe top, and bake. The banneton itself does not go into the oven.

The banneton comes with a cotton-blend liner and cover. The cover is used toprevent the top of the dough from drying out during proofing, while the liner isused with very wet doughs or when you want the crust of your finished loaf tohave a smooth texture. Left unlined, the basket' s coil pattern will leave anattractive imprint on the dough.

To prevent your dough from sticking, the banneton, cover and liner must beseasoned before they are first used. Mist with water, follow with a generousdusting of flour and leave to dry. Dust with flour again before use; any excessflour may be removed with a stiff pastry brush.