17 Recipe For Crusty Italian Bread Experience Culinary Bliss Now!

Published on: Mar 14, 2024

Crusty Italian bread is a staple in many households, perfect for dipping into soups and sauces, making sandwiches, or simply enjoying on its own. While it may seem intimidating to make at home, with the right recipe and techniques, you can achieve a crusty and flavorful loaf that rivals your favorite bakery. In this article, we will share our tried and tested recipe for crusty Italian bread that will have your kitchen smelling like a rustic Italian bakery.

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Ingredients You Will Need

Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups warm water

For the crust:

1 cup hot water
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

Step 1: Making the Dough

To make the dough, mix the flour, yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add in the warm water and mix until a soft and sticky dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a bit more water, and if it is too wet, add a bit more flour. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shaping the Loaf

Gently deflate the dough and place it on a floured surface. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, tucking in the edges to create a smooth surface.

Step 4: Second Rise

Place the shaped loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Creating the Crust

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a small saucepan, mix the hot water and cornstarch until well combined. Brush this mixture over the top of the risen loaf, then use a sharp knife to make a few slashes on the surface.

Step 6: Baking the Bread

Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Enjoy Your Homemade Crusty Italian Bread

With this simple recipe, you can create a delicious and crusty Italian bread in the comfort of your own home. Serve it warm with your favorite soup or use it to make mouth-watering sandwiches. Once you try this recipe, you'll never want to go back to store-bought bread again. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your baking skills. Buon appetito!