Crusty Italian Bread, with its crisp exterior and soft, airy interior, is a staple in Italian cuisine. This recipe guides you through crafting your own authentic loaves, perfect for accompanying a wide array of meals or enjoyed on their own.
The Story
Italian bread, known for its rustic and simplistic nature, has been a part of Italy’s culinary heritage for centuries. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian baking, emphasizing the importance of texture and flavor that can only be achieved through the perfect combination of ingredients and techniques.
Why You Should Make
Making your own Italian bread is deeply satisfying. Not only does it fill your home with a delightful aroma, but it also provides a fresher and more flavorful alternative to store-bought bread. Plus, the process of kneading and shaping the dough can be a therapeutic and rewarding experience.
How to Serve
Serve this bread fresh from the oven, accompanied by olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It’s also perfect for making bruschetta, accompanying a cheese platter, or simply as a side to sop up sauces in your favorite pasta dishes.
How to Store
Store the bread in a bread box or wrapped in a cloth inside a paper bag at room temperature. It’s best enjoyed within a day or two. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in an airtight container.
Tips
- Ensure the water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading the dough adequately is key to developing gluten, which gives the bread its texture.
- Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise, which is crucial for a light and airy loaf.
Prepare Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 2 hours
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours 50 minutes
Ingredients
- Makes 2 loaves:
- 1 1/3 cups warm water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
- 4 cups flour
Directions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and brown sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- Add salt, olive oil, and slowly mix in the flour until the dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rise again for about an hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Make shallow cuts on top of the loaves with a sharp knife and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook Notes
- Spraying the oven with water before baking the bread will help achieve a crispier crust.
Variations
- Herbed Italian Bread: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for additional flavor.
- Whole Wheat Italian Bread: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Keto Version
- Use almond flour and a keto-friendly yeast to create a low-carb version of this bread.
Low-Carb Version
- Replace traditional flour with low-carb flour alternatives like coconut or soy flour.
Nutrition Information
Each serving approximately contains (1 loaf, serves 10):
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 6g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and preparation modifications.)