Description
Rustic, airy, and chewy, this authentic Ciabatta bread is perfect for making sandwiches, dipping into olive oil, or enjoying with a warm bowl of soup. Simple ingredients, big flavor!
Ingredients
- 4 cups (500 g) bread flour
- 1½ cups (360 ml) warm water
- 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 tsp (10 g) salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes, until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Transfer the soft, sticky dough onto a floured surface. Gently divide it into two loaves, stretching each slightly into a rectangle. Place the loaves onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let the loaves rest for another 30-45 minutes while you preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Bake the ciabatta for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing. Enjoy with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or fresh mozzarella.
Notes
- Use high-hydration dough for the classic holey, airy texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough—gentle shaping keeps it light and fluffy.
- Bake with a steam method (place a pan of hot water in the oven) to create a crispier crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of a loaf)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
