Classic white loaf

Method

1. Put the flour, salt, sugar and yeast into a large mixing bowl and stir together well. Measure the milk into a measuring jug, crack in the egg, then beat together with a fork. Add the mixture to the flour, quickly stir it in, then bring the dough together.
2. Gently knead the dough in the bowl, then put in a stand mixer with a dough hook and knead on a medium setting for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, knead on a lightly floured surface for 10-15 minutes until the dough springs back when lightly pressed with a finger.
3. Put the dough in a lightly oiled, large mixing bowl, cover with cling film and leave it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour until nearly doubled in size.
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4. When the dough has risen, return to a clean surface and gently knead to knock out any large air pockets. Shape the loaf into an even round and put on a greased baking tray. Use the flat of your hand to flatten the dough a little. Slash the top 3 times with a sharp knife, then cover with a plastic bag or some lightly oiled cling film. Heat the oven to 190°C/170°C fan/gas 5.
5. Leave to prove in a warm place for 45-60 minutes. Brush the loaf with a little milk, sprinkle flour over the top, then bake for 40-45 minutes until risen, golden and the loaf sounds hollow when gently tapped on the underside. Cool on a wire rack, then slice.