Simple Italian Bread Recipe

simple italian bread recipe

Craving the taste of freshly baked bread straight from an Italian bakery? Look no further than this simple Italian bread recipe that will transport you to the streets of Rome with just one bite. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy the aroma and taste of homemade Italian bread right in your own kitchen.

There’s something truly special about the simplicity and deliciousness of Italian bread. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of pasta, a charcuterie board, or simply enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating your own loaf of Italian bread that is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups of bread flour
– 1 1/2 cups of warm water
– 1 packet of active dry yeast
– 2 teaspoons of salt
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– Olive oil

Instructions Step by Step:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.
3. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture.
4. Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
8. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Cover the loaf with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
11. Brush the loaf with olive oil and make shallow slashes on top with a sharp knife.
12. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
13. Allow the bread to cool before slicing and serving.

Tips:

Looking to add some extra flavor to your Italian bread? Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough before baking. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top for a savory twist.
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil to keep it fresh. To reheat, simply toast slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven.
Serve your Italian bread alongside a bowl of homemade soup, a cheese platter, or use it to make delicious sandwiches.

In conclusion, this simple Italian bread recipe is a must-try for any bread lover looking to bring a taste of Italy into their home. With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread that is sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the flavors of Italy with every bite. Buon appetito!