If you've been searching for the perfect recipe for a delicious loaf of Italian bread, then look no further. Reddit is a treasure trove of culinary inspiration, and we've sifted through it to find the most highly-rated and raved about Italian bread recipe. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its crispy crust and soft, fluffy interior. So, let's get baking!
Jump to Recipe
The foundation of any good bread is flour, and for this Italian bread recipe, you'll need all-purpose flour. This type of flour has a higher protein content, which will help give your bread structure and a chewy texture. You can also use bread flour for a slightly denser and chewier bread.
Yeast is the magic ingredient that makes bread rise and gives it that airy, light texture. For this recipe, you'll need active dry yeast, which can be found in most grocery stores. Make sure it's fresh and active, as old yeast may not give your bread the rise it needs.
Water is a key component in breadmaking, and it's important to get the right temperature. You'll need lukewarm water for this recipe, around 110-115 degrees Fahrenheit. This will activate the yeast and help the bread rise.
Salt not only adds flavor but also helps regulate the fermentation process and strengthens the gluten in the bread. You'll need kosher salt for this recipe, but you can also use sea salt or table salt.
Olive oil adds a rich flavor to the bread and helps keep it moist. You'll need extra virgin olive oil for this recipe, but you can also use regular olive oil if that's what you have on hand.
Cornmeal will give your bread a nice crunch and prevent it from sticking to the baking sheet. You can use fine or coarse cornmeal for this recipe, whichever you prefer.
Now that you have all your ingredients, it's time to start baking. This Italian bread recipe is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. It will yield one large loaf or two smaller loaves, depending on how you shape it.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy and activated.
Add in the flour, salt, olive oil, and cornmeal, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until it's golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Let the bread cool for a few minutes before slicing into it and enjoying the delicious aroma and taste of freshly baked Italian bread. Serve it with your favorite pasta dish or as a side for soups and stews.
In conclusion, this Italian bread recipe from Reddit is a must-try for any bread lover. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you'll have a delicious loaf of bread that will impress everyone. So why not give it a try and see for yourself? Happy baking!
Ingredients
Nutrition
