Brotform
A
Of German origin, the brotform supports the dough and prevents it from spreading out, particularly during the long proving times associated with the natural leavens that were used before the availability of baker's yeast. Brotformen come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate different shapes and weights of loaf. Cheaper versions of the traditional brotform are also available, made from compressed wood pulp or perforated plastic.
Want to find out more? Look at the chapter on rising, proving and fermentation in the book flour and water.
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