Michelle Darmody: How to bake the classic white loaf — and the mistakes to avoid

"Having worked a large portion of my life in a bakery it reminds me of the quiet mornings before the doors were opened to the public, and the clatter of the day began, but it also reminds me of childhood."

Pic: iStock

The smell of baking bread is one of life's greatest pleasures. Having a just cooled loaf to cut for your lunchtime sandwich is a real treat. 

This is quite a solid loaf, there is a weight to it, quite unlike a fluffy focaccia for example. It is good for sandwiches and great for toasting.