Description
This recipe for Crusty Italian Bread results in a delicious loaf with a crispy crust and soft interior. Perfect for serving alongside soups or pasta dishes.
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
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
6. Let the dough rise again for 30 minutes, then bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
Notes
- – For a more flavorful bread, add herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the dough.
- – To achieve a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg