Easy Ciabatta Bread Homemade Crusty Bread Recipe from brooklynfarmgirl.com
Introduction
Ciabatta is an Italian bread that is known for its crispy crust and soft, airy texture. It is perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or simply enjoying on its own. Making ciabatta from scratch may seem daunting, but with the right ingredients and instructions, it can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Ingredient
To make ciabatta, you will need the following ingredients:
500g bread flour
10g salt
7g active dry yeast
400ml warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
Cornmeal or semolina flour for dusting
Bread Flour
Bread flour is a type of flour that is high in gluten, which gives bread its structure and chewiness. It is available in most grocery stores and can be found in the baking aisle.
Salt
Salt is an important ingredient in bread as it enhances the flavor and controls the fermentation process. Use a good quality sea salt or kosher salt for best results.
Active Dry Yeast
Active dry yeast is a common type of yeast that is used in bread making. It needs to be activated in warm water before being added to the dough.
Water
Water is essential in bread making as it hydrates the dough and activates the yeast. The water should be warm but not too hot, around 110°F to 115°F.
Olive Oil
Olive oil adds flavor and moisture to the bread. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for best results.
Cornmeal or Semolina Flour
Cornmeal or semolina flour is used for dusting the dough and the baking surface. It prevents the dough from sticking and adds a nice crunch to the crust.
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough comes together.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Second Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently deflate it with your hands. Shape it into a rectangle and fold it in thirds. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and dust with cornmeal or semolina flour. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 6: Bake the Ciabatta
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place a baking dish or tray on the bottom rack of the oven and fill it with boiling water. This will create steam in the oven and help the bread develop a crispy crust. Bake the ciabatta for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the ciabatta from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings or simply on its own.
Nutrition
Ciabatta bread is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for bread lovers. One slice of ciabatta (approximately 50g) contains:
Calories: 130
Protein: 4g
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion
Making ciabatta from scratch is a fun and rewarding experience that can elevate your bread game to the next level. With the right ingredients and instructions, you can create a delicious and healthy bread that is perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with your baking skills?
