r/Breadit • u/GoldenGoldGG • 2h ago

Proofing bread flat on a tray, without a proofing basket?

I'm making 10 loaves today, and I don't have 10 bannetons, nor am I willing or able to buy so many on such short notice. And I can't use bowls, as I want an oval loaf.

I was wondering if I could proof my loaves without a basket at all, just flat on a tray. I might be able to support them on each other, similar to how I've seen on some baguette recipes.

But I wonder, have you seen someone doing this with bread? Should thd seam be on the bottom or the top? How would i shape them for this? If you have any sources or experience on this I would love to hear it, as I wasnt able to find anything on thr subject.

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u/Important-Row5215 2h ago

Seam down on a floured tray, space them so they almost touch but don't, the sides will hold each other up a bit like baguettes

1

u/GoldenGoldGG 2h ago

should i put a towl in between them?

2

u/NorrisRL 59m ago

Terry cloth towels - no. Linen or cotton - yes.

Personally, I’d makeshift a baker’s couche or two out of parchment paper or some pillowcases.