Stir all of the preferment ingredients together to make a thick mixture. Cover and let rest for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Stir down the preferment and add water, yeast, sugar, 3 ¼ cups of the flour, and salt. Rest for 12 to 15 minutes, then stir again.

Knead the dough, adding up to an additional ¾ cup flour as necessary, for 10 to 12 minutes.

Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until almost doubled, about 1 to 2 hours.

Deflate the dough gently and shape into one or two balls.

Place on a dusted baking sheet and cover. Let rise until puffy, about 45 to 90 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 475°F.

Slash the bread and dust with flour. Spritz water into the oven and place the bread inside.

Reduce heat to 425°F and spritz with water every few minutes for the first 15 minutes of baking.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches at least 190°F.

Remove and cool on a rack. Store wrapped for a couple of days or freeze for longer storage.