Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, especially when it’s a rustic and crusty loaf of Ciabatta. Originating from Italy, Ciabatta bread is known for its soft interior and chewy crust, making it a perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own. This Easy Ciabatta Bread Recipe will guide you through the simple steps to create a delightful loaf that will elevate any meal or snack time. Let’s dive into the joy of baking your own Ciabatta bread at home.
### Easy Ciabatta Bread Recipe
#### Ingredients:
– 4 cups bread flour
– 2 1/4 tsp dry active yeast
– 2 cups lukewarm water
– 2 tsp salt
– Olive oil (for greasing)
#### Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and dry active yeast. Make a well in the center.
2. Slowly pour the lukewarm water into the well while mixing with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
3. Add salt to the dough and continue mixing until well incorporated.
4. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until the dough doubles in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking stone or an upside-down baking sheet in the oven to heat up.
6. Once the dough has risen, transfer it onto a heavily floured surface. Be gentle to maintain air bubbles.
7. Divide the dough in half to create two loaves. Shape each half into a rectangular or oval shape.
8. Dust a baking sheet with flour and place the shaped loaves on it. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
9. Using a sharp knife, make diagonal slashes on the top of each loaf to allow for expansion during baking.
10. Carefully transfer the loaves onto the preheated baking stone or upside-down baking sheet in the oven.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
12. Once baked, remove the Ciabatta loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
13. For the best flavor and texture, allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and enjoying your homemade Ciabatta.
**Get creative with your Ciabatta bread by adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or olives to the dough for extra flavor. Serve it warm with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar or use it to make gourmet sandwiches. This Easy Ciabatta Bread Recipe is a versatile staple that you’ll love baking time and time again. Enjoy the process of creating this traditional Italian bread in the comfort of your own home!**
