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Italian Bread

Italian Bread

  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large loaf or 8 small rolls 1x
  • Diet: Plant-based

Description

Bake fresh, warm Italian Bread with a perfect balance of crisp crust and soft, airy inside using simple, natural ingredients and easy steps. This recipe is versatile, allowing customization with herbs and seeds, making it ideal for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying with plant-based butter. Suitable for novice and seasoned bakers alike, it brings the authentic taste of an Italian bakery to your home kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups bread or all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (natural)
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and natural gelling agent if using. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
  4. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough gently to release excess air. Shape the dough into a traditional Italian loaf or baguette, or divide into smaller rolls if preferred.
  5. Second Rise: Let the shaped dough rest and rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until light and puffy before baking.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Optionally, score the surface with a sharp knife for a classic look. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crisp. For extra crustiness, place a pan of water in the oven to create steam during baking.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for consistent dough texture and yeast activation.
  • Avoid adding too much flour during kneading; keep the dough slightly sticky for a light crumb.
  • Knead sufficiently to develop gluten but do not overwork to prevent dense bread.
  • Ensure the dough doubles in size during rising but avoid over-proofing to prevent collapse.
  • Use a baking stone or preheated tray for even crust development and heat distribution.
  • Customize your loaf by adding herbs, olives, seeds, or using a whole wheat flour blend as desired.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (about 60g)
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 280 mg
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Italian bread, homemade bread, fresh bread, baking, plant-based bread, crusty bread, soft bread

Find it online: https://tastysoulkitchen.com/italian-bread/