Italian bread is a classic and versatile recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to make a delicious side for dinner or a tasty sandwich for lunch, this simple Italian bread recipe is a must-try. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a loaf of bread that is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of olive oil, salt, and seasonings creates a delicious flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
- Quick prep time: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have this bread ready to bake in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: This Italian bread is great for making ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week. It also freezes well for future use.
Ingredient Notes:
- All-purpose flour (or bread flour): Provides the base for the bread and gives it structure.
- Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps the dough rise.
- Active dry yeast: Acts as the leavening agent to make the bread rise.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.
- Sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps it activate.
- Olive oil: Adds moisture and flavor to the bread.
- Egg (for brushing): Creates a shiny crust on the bread.
- Seasoning of your choice: Adds additional flavor to the bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl and let sit until foamy.
- Combine flour and salt in a large mixing bowl, then add yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Knead the dough until smooth and stretchy, then let it rise until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into a loaf, let it rise again, then brush with egg and seasonings.
- Bake until golden brown and enjoy sliced with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or as desired.
Helpful Tips:
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Experiment with different seasonings for unique flavors.
- Store bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for optimal results.
- Use a sharp knife to make clean slashes on the bread for a beautiful finish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Italian bread sliced with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, use it for bruschetta or garlic bread, make sandwiches, or dip it in soups for a comforting meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
- Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. Use the same amount and skip the blooming step.
- How can I make the bread crustier?
- To achieve a crustier bread, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
- Can I freeze this bread?
- Yes, this bread freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Can I knead the dough by hand?
- Yes, you can knead the dough by hand if you don’t have a stand mixer. Just be sure to knead until smooth and stretchy.
Conclusion:
Try this simple Italian bread recipe for a delicious and versatile addition to your meals. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a homemade loaf of bread that is perfect for any occasion. Share your feedback and enjoy the process of making your own bread from scratch!
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Cozy Winter Dinner: Homemade Italian Bread Recipe for Dipping
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 165 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious Italian bread recipe that yields a golden-brown loaf perfect for dipping in olive oil or using for sandwiches.
Ingredients
Main Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110F)
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 2 tsp seasoning of your choice (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl, let it sit until foamy.
- Mix Dough: Combine flour, salt, yeast mixture, and olive oil until a smooth dough forms.
- Rise: Let dough rise, shape into a loaf, and let rise again.
- Bake: Brush with egg, sprinkle with seasoning, and bake until golden brown.
Notes
- This bread is versatile and can be served with olive oil, used for bruschetta, or dipped in soups.
- Experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor of the bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg