Mel! said:Thanks JDP
I think i will try brushing flour mixed with water, on the bread next time, and see what happens.
So far, I have just rubbed dry flour on.
Mel
JDP said:Hi DinaFine and hello again Mel!. Yes you can get a ceramic base to an unglazed pot but a simple baking or pizza stone works on the same principle. I love Alton and he likes to put those little twists in. I have combined parts of his recipe which I posted ealier as well as parts from my Cuisnart recipe and have come up with a good one. SOmeone mention rubbing the bread with flour, or corn flour. Try mixxing 1T cornstarch with a 1/3 cup water and brush that on the bread just prior to baking it makes a great crust and comes from Alton's recipe. And Dinafine the steam is good for the raising but is also great in the baking. It delivers that crispy crust.
All these suggestions are great. I am going to look for a stone or ceramic base of some sort and try it out. I used steam to bake for the last couple of breads, and I am pleased with the result. Also, what is the difference between using cornstarch with water to brush on and a flour water combination. Is there going to be a difference? ]