Can I skip the scald?

Yes, but you'll lose some depth of flavor and the crumb will be drier. It will still taste delicious, but be sure to wrap the loaf well for storing.

Can I cold-proof this in the fridge?

Yes, this should work well. I can't test it in my kitchen because my 30+ year old fridge doesn't get cool enough, but this is exactly the right kind of loaf for cold proofing. Place the shaped dough into a well-floured banneton, wrap it in a clean plastic bag, and proof in the fridge for 2-12 hours. The loaf can go straight from the fridge into a preheated Dutch oven.

Is spelt bread healthier than Wheat bread?

It depends. Spelt is an ancient grain that's rich in minerals and lower in overall gluten. It contains more protein than wheat, but that protein forms a weaker gluten structure. This is why spelt is often considered easier to digest, though it's not gluten-free. Keep in mind that commercial milling destroys many of the nutrients in flour. Between white spelt bread and a white wheat bread, the nutritional difference is small, and both benefit similarly from sourdough fermentation. If gluten sensitivity is a concern, spelt bread may be a better option.

Can I swap in Whole-GRain Spelt or Fresh-Milled Flour?

Yes, you can substitute 20% whole spelt or fresh-milled flour without dramatically changing the texture. Add 5-10g more water during mixing, and adjust water as needed during stretch and folds. If you plan to use 100% whole-grain flour, you'll likely need to increase the hydration further.