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Italian Bread Recipe

Homemade Italian Bread Recipe for Crisp Perfection

This Italian bread recipe is a simple and delicious way to make freshly baked bread at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups flour Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and xanthan gum for gluten-free option.
  • 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast No need to proof, mix it right in.
  • 1.5 cups water Use filtered water.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 2 teaspoons salt Essential for yeast activation.
Additional Flavor Boosters
  • 0.5-0.75 cups seeds or nuts For added crunch.
  • herbs Optional fresh or dried herbs for extra flavor.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • wooden spoon
  • floured surface
  • Baking Pan
  • Oven
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of instant yeast. Create a well in the center and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil followed by 1 ½ cups of warm filtered water.
  2. Transfer the shaggy dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Lightly oil a bowl, place the dough inside, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours.
  4. Once risen, punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, place in a greased baking pan, cover, and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.
  5. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 200mgFiber: 1gIron: 6mg

Notes

Measure flour accurately for best results. Let the dough rise sufficiently for a better texture.

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