Crusty Italian Bread

by

Ingredients (Makes 2 Loaves):

  • 1 1/3 cups warm water
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
  • 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 4 cups flour

How To Make Crusty Italian Bread:

  1. Place warm water, yeast, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir and let it stand for a few minutes until it starts to bubble and foam a bit.
  2. Add olive oil and salt. Mix and gradually add the flour until the dough comes away from the sides of the bowl. Use the dough hook for a few minutes.
  3. Cover and let the dough rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
  4. Punch down the dough, divide it in two, and form it into two loaves.
  5. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise until doubled.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Beat together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water. Brush the risen loaves with the egg mixture.
  7. Make a single long quick cut down the center of the loaves with a sharp knife.
  8. Place at least 1 cup of hot water in a shallow pan on the rack underneath the bread. The steam will make the crust turn perfectly. Add more water during cooking if needed, ensuring it doesn’t evaporate.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the loaves turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
  10. Remove from the pan and let cool on racks. For an extra touch, rub butter over the hot crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  1. Crispy Perfection:
    Achieve a perfectly crispy crust that makes each bite a delight. The secret lies in the steam created during baking.
  2. Aromatic Bliss:
    Experience the joy of a kitchen filled with the heavenly aroma of freshly baked bread, making your home cozy and inviting.
  3. Simple Elegance:
    This recipe’s simplicity ensures that both novice and experienced bakers can create a masterpiece. No complicated steps, just pure baking bliss.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
A1: While you can experiment, using all-purpose flour yields the best results for that classic Italian bread texture.

Q2: How do I store the bread for freshness?
A2: Once cooled, store the loaves in airtight bags or containers to maintain freshness. You can also freeze them for longer shelf life.

Q3: Can I add herbs or garlic for a flavored variation?
A3: Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding herbs or garlic to the dough for a flavorful twist.

Conclusion:

Embark on your baking journey with our Crusty Italian Bread recipe. From the first rise to the golden finish, this simple yet rewarding process will fill your home with warmth and the delightful scent of freshly baked bread. Enjoy the experience and savor every bite of your homemade masterpiece.

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