Name: Crusty Italian Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Cornmeal for dusting

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Crusty Italian bread is a classic and versatile recipe that is loved for its crispy crust and soft interior. Whether you’re serving it with a comforting bowl of soup or using it to make a delicious sandwich, this bread is a must-have for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Delicious and authentic Italian flavors
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed fresh or toasted

Ingredient Notes:

All-purpose flour: Provides the base for the bread and gives it a soft texture.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.
Sugar: Helps activate the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.
Active dry yeast: A key ingredient for the bread to rise.
Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps the dough come together.
Olive oil: Adds moisture and flavor to the bread.
Cornmeal for dusting: Prevents the bread from sticking to the baking surface.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
Slowly add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size.
Shape the dough into a loaf, sprinkle with cornmeal, and let it rise again.
Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and crusty.

Helpful Tips:

Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients for accuracy.
Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for best results.
For a richer flavor, add herbs or garlic to the dough.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Brush the loaf with olive oil before baking for a shiny crust.
Place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam and achieve a crispy crust.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this crusty Italian bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, alongside a hearty soup, or as a base for bruschetta.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store leftover bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast, but adjust the amount accordingly.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Tap the bottom of the loaf – it should sound hollow when done.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise, then thaw and bake when ready.

My bread turned out dense. What did I do wrong?

Check that the yeast is fresh and that the dough was given enough time to rise.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of homemade crusty Italian bread with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for any meal or occasion, this bread will be a hit with your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your baking success stories with us!

Crusty Italian Bread

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Enjoy the rustic flavors of Italy with this homemade Crusty Italian Bread recipe. With a crispy crust and soft interior, this bread is perfect for dipping in olive oil or pairing with your favorite Italian dishes.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Cornmeal for dusting

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Instructions

Prepare the dough: Combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add warm water and olive oil. Knead until smooth.
Rise: Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
Shape: Form the dough into a loaf shape and dust with cornmeal.
Bake: Bake until golden brown and crusty.