When it comes to baking bread, nothing beats the smell of freshly baked Italian bread. The crispy crust, fluffy interior, and mouthwatering aroma make it a favorite among many bread lovers. However, making Italian bread from scratch may seem intimidating to some. But fear not, for we have a simple and quick Italian bread recipe that will have you enjoying delicious homemade bread in no time. So, dust off your apron and let's get baking!
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To start off, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast and allows the bread to rise properly.
In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
Dust a clean surface with flour and transfer the dough onto it. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air pockets. Shape it into a loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet. Let it rise for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 375°F. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown.
Remove the Italian bread from the oven and let it cool before slicing and serving. You can also brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle some Italian herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Now that you have a simple and quick Italian bread recipe in your repertoire, there's no need to rely on store-bought bread. So, go ahead and impress your family and friends with your homemade Italian bread. Buon appetito!Ingredients
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