Why Make This Recipe
Crusty Italian Bread is beloved for its crunchy exterior and soft, airy inside. This classic loaf is perfect for sandwiches, served with soup, or simply enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil. Making your own bread can be a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma and provides a sense of accomplishment. Plus, homemade bread is free of preservatives and full of flavor!
How to Make Crusty Italian Bread
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet.
- Let it rise again for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Let cool before slicing.
How to Serve Crusty Italian Bread
Crusty Italian Bread is versatile and can be served in several ways. Enjoy it warm with butter or olive oil for dipping. You can also slice it for sandwiches, top it with bruschetta, or pair it with cheese and charcuterie boards. It makes a great side with soups and salads too!
How to Store Crusty Italian Bread
To keep your Crusty Italian Bread fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Tips to Make Crusty Italian Bread
- Ensure your yeast is fresh to guarantee proper rising.
- Knead the dough well for the best texture.
- If you want extra crustiness, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to retain its structure.
Variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for added flavor. You can also incorporate ingredients like olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious variation!
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the water content since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
2. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Make sure the water is warm, not hot, and check that your yeast is fresh. If dough doesn’t rise, it could be because the yeast is inactive.
3. Can I bake this bread in a bread machine?
Yes, you can use a bread machine. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding ingredients and select the appropriate setting for baking bread.
Crusty Italian Bread
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons) Ensure yeast is fresh for proper rising.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water Water should be warm but not hot.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet.
- Let it rise again for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Let cool before slicing.