This one is from "Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day." It is for a cornstarch wash to brush on the loaf just before baking.
Cornstarch Wash
Using a fork, blend 1/2 tsp. cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a paste. Add 1/2 cup water and whisk with the fork. Microwave or broil until mixture appears glassy, about 30-60 seconds on high. It will keep in the frig for two weeks; discard if it has an off smell.
The author goes on to say: "Just before baking, paint the surface of the loaf with cornstarch wash, then slash a cross, "scallop," or tic-tac-toe pattern into the top, using a serrated bread knife."
In another part of the book, he mentions that this is the time to sprinkle the loaf with any seeds you might want to use. I was happy to find this because I've been using egg-white wash, but it's not holding the seeds all that well. Also, I'm thinking that maybe the cornstarch wash will help keep the crust nice and crisp.
Cornstarch Wash
Using a fork, blend 1/2 tsp. cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a paste. Add 1/2 cup water and whisk with the fork. Microwave or broil until mixture appears glassy, about 30-60 seconds on high. It will keep in the frig for two weeks; discard if it has an off smell.
The author goes on to say: "Just before baking, paint the surface of the loaf with cornstarch wash, then slash a cross, "scallop," or tic-tac-toe pattern into the top, using a serrated bread knife."
In another part of the book, he mentions that this is the time to sprinkle the loaf with any seeds you might want to use. I was happy to find this because I've been using egg-white wash, but it's not holding the seeds all that well. Also, I'm thinking that maybe the cornstarch wash will help keep the crust nice and crisp.
Maryann
"Drink your tea slowly and reverently..."
"Drink your tea slowly and reverently..."