For many in the UK, the idea of baking fresh, artisan-style bread at home can feel daunting, often requiring precise techniques and specialist equipment. However, a celebrated TV chef has now shared a remarkably simple method that bypasses the need for a conventional oven entirely, sparking excitement among novice and experienced bakers alike.
Juliet Sear's No-Fuss Baking Revelation
Juliet Sear, the resident baking expert on ITV's This Morning, recently demonstrated her ingenious no-knead focaccia recipe designed specifically for the air fryer. The recipe, which was highlighted by the Express, simplifies the bread-making process dramatically, making it accessible to everyone.
Traditional bread recipes can be intimidating, demanding exact measurements and lengthy kneading. Juliet's approach strips this back to basics. Her method involves simply mixing all ingredients in a single bowl to create a wet, sticky dough, eliminating the kneading step altogether. The air fryer then takes over, slashing cooking time while delivering a professional finish.
Overwhelming Positive Response from Bakers
The chef posted a tutorial of her method on Instagram, where it quickly gained traction, amassing over 484,000 views and thousands of engagements. In the comments, Juliet reassured followers, writing: "Honestly this is so easy just a few mins hands on time, it's super delicious in the air fryer as it stays lovely and hydrated but super crunchy on the outside!"
The response from the online community was overwhelmingly positive. One user, Sarah, commented: "Oooo I'm def going to have a go!" Another enthusiast shared: "Love this series of AF bread recipes. My family demolish the rolls!... Works out at 8 organic rolls for just over a quid." Even brands like Cornish Sea Salt joined in, praising the "pillowy" results.
How to Make Your Own Air Fryer Focaccia
Ready to try it yourself? Here is Juliet Sear's method for creating a delicious, fluffy focaccia loaf using your air fryer.
Ingredients:
- 500g very strong white bread flour
- 7g dried fast action yeast
- 10g fine sea salt
- 3-4 tbsp olive oil, plus extra
- 1-2 tsp flaky sea salt for topping
- Polenta or semolina (optional)
- Optional extras: garlic cloves, rosemary, olives
Method:
Combine the flour, yeast, and fine salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the centre and gradually add about 400ml of tepid water mixed with one tablespoon of olive oil. Mix into a very wet, sticky dough, cover, and leave to rise at room temperature until it has tripled in volume and looks wobbly.
Using oiled hands, transfer the dough to an oiled, paper-lined air fryer basket (sprinkled with polenta if desired). Stretch it to fit. If using a smaller air fryer, you may need to divide the dough. Cover and prove for another hour until puffy and jelly-like.
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C. Mix two tablespoons of olive oil with one tablespoon of water and brush it over the dough. Use your fingertips to press dimples into the dough, creating the classic focaccia look. Scatter with flaky salt and any extras.
Air fry for 15-25 minutes depending on loaf size, until golden and crisp. Immediately after baking, brush generously with a final mixture of 1.5 tbsp oil and 2 tbsp water. Allow to cool slightly before tearing into your homemade, no-oven masterpiece.
