What kind of flour keeps bread dough from sticking in a proofing basket?

Question

When proofing down in a bread basket (not just a smooth bowl), what kind of flour keeps the dough from actually sticking? Is there a technique that works? Normal wheat flour seems to be to readily absorbed and then its a nightmare to get unstuck.

Asked by rfusca

Answer

The best seems to be a 1:1 ratio of normal wheat-based flour and rice flour - others agree.

First the wheat flour sticks to the dough and creates a nice smooth surface.
Then the rice flour (which doesn't adsorb very quickly) creates small 'rollers' that keep the dough from dragging, like ball bearings. This is similar to semonlina or cornmeal for working with pizza.

A key part of the technique to a banneton is to sprinkle and rub some flour mix on the surface of the dough first, then sprinkle some flour mix in the basket, then put it seem side up in the basket. No sticking.

This same mix and similar technique works wonders for using a peel as well.

Answered by rfusca

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