Homemade Italian Bread
What Started it all:
Flour, salt yeast water
This simple yet delicious Italian bread recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a crusty, golden loaf that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Let's dive into the world of Italian baking!
Ingredients
- 1 kg (about 8 cups) all-purpose flour
- 20 g (about 1.5 teaspoons) salt
- 10 g (about 2 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 600 ml (about 2.5 cups) warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.
- Once combined, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a round loaf or divide it into smaller portions for individual rolls.
- Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). If you like, you can place a shallow pan of water in the oven to create steam, which will help develop a crusty exterior.
- Once the dough has risen again, score the top with a sharp knife to allow for expansion during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade Italian bread warm with a drizzle of olive oil or as a side to your favorite pasta dish. This recipe is not only straightforward but also a wonderful way to connect with the essence of Italian cooking. Buon Appetito!