Anti-Inflammatory No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread
A wholesome twist on the classic rustic artisan loaf, this anti-inflammatory no-knead Dutch oven bread is crusty on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, and made with ingredients known to support overall wellness. By using whole grains, extra virgin olive oil, and optional anti-inflammatory additions like turmeric and seeds, this bread becomes more than comfort food—it becomes functional nutrition.
Perfect for clean eating, gut health support, and anti-inflammatory meal planning.
🌿 Description
This homemade artisan bread requires no kneading, no mixer, and minimal effort. Long fermentation enhances digestibility and flavor while supporting gut health. Baking in a Dutch oven creates steam, resulting in that beautiful golden crust and bakery-style texture.
It’s ideal for:
-
Clean eating meal plans
-
Mediterranean diet recipes
-
Gut-friendly baking
-
Whole food lifestyle
🥖 Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
-
2 cups organic whole wheat flour
-
1 cup unbleached bread flour
-
1 tsp sea salt
-
½ tsp active dry yeast
-
½ tsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory boost)
-
1 tbsp ground flaxseed
-
1 tbsp chia seeds
Wet Ingredients:
-
1 ½ cups warm filtered water
-
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (cold-pressed)
Optional Add-Ins:
-
1 tsp raw honey (natural prebiotic support)
-
¼ cup chopped walnuts (omega-3 boost)
-
1 tbsp pumpkin or sunflower seeds
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Mix
In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients. Add warm water and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms (about 30 seconds).
Step 2: Rest (Long Fermentation)
Cover with plastic wrap or towel. Let sit at room temperature for 12–18 hours. Dough will double and develop bubbles.
Step 3: Shape
Lightly flour a surface. Turn dough out and gently shape into a ball (do not knead). Let rest 30–60 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat Dutch Oven
Place Dutch oven (with lid) in oven. Preheat to 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake
Carefully place dough into hot Dutch oven.
-
Bake covered for 30 minutes
-
Remove lid and bake 10–15 minutes more until golden brown
Step 6: Cool
Let cool at least 1 hour before slicing (important for texture).
🍽 Serving Suggestions
-
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil + crushed garlic
-
Spread with mashed avocado + hemp seeds
-
Pair with anti-inflammatory turmeric lentil soup
-
Serve alongside grilled salmon (omega-3 rich meal)
-
Toast and top with almond butter + cinnamon
🌾 Variations
1️⃣ Gluten-Sensitive Option
Use organic spelt flour or sourdough starter instead of yeast for improved digestibility.
2️⃣ Keto-Friendly Version
Replace flour with almond flour blend (note: texture will differ significantly).
3️⃣ Mediterranean Herb Bread
Add rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic.
4️⃣ Gut-Healing Version
Add 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar with the water.
5️⃣ High-Protein Bread
Mix in 2 tbsp unflavored collagen peptides.
🔥 Why This Bread Supports an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
-
Whole grains = fiber for gut microbiome
-
Olive oil = heart-healthy fats
-
Turmeric = curcumin (natural inflammation support)
-
Seeds = omega-3 fatty acids
-
Long fermentation = easier digestion
📊 Nutrition (Approx. Per Slice – 12 slices)
-
Calories: 140
-
Protein: 5g
-
Carbohydrates: 22g
-
Fiber: 4g
-
Fat: 4g
-
Omega-3s: ~500mg
-
Sugar: <1g
-
Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates.
❓ Related Questions
Is no-knead bread healthier?
Yes, long fermentation may improve digestibility and nutrient absorption.
Can this reduce inflammation?
While bread alone won’t cure inflammation, whole grains, olive oil, and turmeric may support an anti-inflammatory lifestyle.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, the base recipe is naturally vegan.
How do I store it?
Store wrapped in linen or paper for 2 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
💡 Pro Tips
-
Do not rush fermentation
-
Use organic, high-quality ingredients
-
Let it cool completely before slicing
-
Preheat Dutch oven thoroughly for best crust
🧠 Final Thoughts
This anti-inflammatory artisan Dutch oven bread is a perfect blend of comfort and functional nutrition. It fits beautifully into a Mediterranean diet, clean eating lifestyle, or whole-food plant-based plan

