Ciabatta is a classic Italian bread known for its crisp crust and airy, chewy interior. The name “ciabatta” means “slipper” in Italian, a reference to its rustic, flat shape.
Ingredients:
- 500g (4 cups) bread flour
- 375ml (1 1/2 cups) warm water
- 10g (2 tsp) salt
- 5g (1 tsp) sugar
- 7g (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment until a sticky dough forms.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Stretch and Fold: Lightly flour a surface and pour the dough onto it. Gently stretch and fold the dough over itself a few times to build structure.
- Second Rise: Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite toppings or as a side to soups and salads!
This homemade ciabatta is well worth the effort, yielding a crusty, airy loaf that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Happy baking!
