Crusty Italian Bread
Crusty Italian Bread features a crispy, golden-brown crust with a soft, airy interior, making it perfect for dipping in olive oil, pairing with hearty soups, or enjoying with butter. Simple to make with basic ingredients, this homemade bread will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma and quickly become a staple in your meals.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cornmeal for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil, and mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for about 5 minutes.
- First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough, shape it into a round or oval loaf, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
- Second Rise: Let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet or pizza stone inside to heat.
- Score and Bake: Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or lame, then bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Let the bread cool on a rack before slicing.
Notes
- Herb-Infused: Add rosemary or thyme to the dough for an extra herbal twist.
- Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser, rustic flavor.
Find it online: https://avarecipe.com/crusty-italian-bread/
