Instructions: Van Over has developed a very precise technique for making bread dough in a food processor. He details the procedure, including pictures, in his book. He also explains how to convert your favorite bread recipes to his food processor method. The book contains over 60 bread recipes.

This is absolutely one of the best books on bread making ever! [IMHO] Van Over thoroughly discusses all phases of making bread, from measuring to decorating. (And its a good bread baking primer, even if you dont use a food processor.) I highly recommend that your friend read this book and become familiar with the exact technique. I cant begin to relay all aspects of it here, but heres a summary to help get you started: (Also see the Best Ever Baguette recipe in this digest.)

1. Put the dry ingredients in the food processor, fitted with the steel blade. (This includes the yeast; there is no need to proof the yeast first, especially if using an "instant" yeast.)

2. With the machine running, pour all but 2 tablespoons of the liquid through the feed tube. Process for 20 seconds, and add the remaining liquid if the dough does not form a ball during this time. (Use cool liquids; the combined temperature of liquid and flour should be 130F.)

3. Continue processing for another 25 seconds, for a total time of 45 seconds. (The temperature of the dough should be between 75-80F. If the dough is too hot, refrigerate it for 5-10 minutes. If too cool, process for another 5 seconds.)

4. Remove from processor and place in a bowl to rise. Follow your normal procedures for rising, shaping, and baking.

(Note that Van Over discusses temperature of the ingredients, the dough, the proofing environment, etc at length. To create a truly exceptional loaf, refer to the details in the book.)

Once youve mastered the technique, you can use most bread machine recipes in your food processor. (A food processor suitable for making bread dough will handle 3-4 cups of flour - the same quantity as most bread machines.) If the recipe calls for last minute additions (nuts, raisins, chocolate chips, etc), Id add them by hand because the FP blade will pulverize them.

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