Combine flour, 2 teaspoons yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
Stir in water until it's well combined.
Cover with plastic wrap and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour.
After 40 minutes, place a 3 to 6-quart Dutch oven with lid in a cold oven and preheat to 450° F.
After the dough has rested for the hour, place it on a well-floured surface and sprinkle with a little flour.
Using a scraper fold dough over 10-12 times & shape into a rough ball.
Place in a parchment paper-lined bowl (not wax paper) and cover with a towel or another bowl.
Let stand on counter top for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, carefully, using oven gloves, lift the parchment paper with the dough and transfer gently into the hot pot. (the dough sits inside a parchment "basket" inside the pot).
Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove lid and parchment paper. Return, uncovered, to oven and bake 10 - 15 more minutes.
Let it cool at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Makes: One loaf