Accompaniment: Biga

Ingredients:

Makes 3 1/2 cups

1/2 teaspon active dry yeast

1/4 cup warm water

1/1/4 cups water

3 3/4 cups flour

1. Stir the yeast into the water and let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes. Stir in the remaining water and then the flour, 1 cup at a time.

2. Mix 3-4 minutes

3. Let rise at room temperature for 6-24 hours. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.