There is something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread throughout the house. And when it comes to Italian cuisine, few things are as iconic and satisfying as a loaf of crusty Italian bread. This culinary delight is so simple to recreate at home.
This crusty Italian bread is perfect for dipping in olive oil mixed with savory Italian seasoning, serving it alongside your favorite pasta, or simply enjoying it all on its own with butter.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 Package of Active dry yeast or rapid-rise yeast
- 1-1/2 cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
If using the active dry yeast, combine it in a small bowl with the warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. (If using the rapid-rise yeast just combine it with the flour.)
I used my KitchenAid Stand Mixer. Combine the flour, salt, olive oil, and sugar in the mixing bowl. Add the yeast and water mixture and mix on low speed using the dough hook. Mix until the dough forms, remove the dough to a floured surface, and knead a few times. If the dough is too sticky add a little more flour, but not too much.
If you are mixing by hand, combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and pour the yeast mixture and olive oil in the middle. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough forms.
Lightly coat the dough with oil, place it in a large bowl, and cover. Let it rise for 1 to 2 hours.
After the dough has risen, gently press down and shape it into an oval. Or, you can divide the dough into two small loaves.
Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly greased baking sheet. I baked mine in my 10-inch cast iron skillet. cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees while the dough is rising. Once the oven is preheated, place a small pan with one cup of hot water on the lower rack. The steam will help create a crispy crust.
Just before baking, use a sharp knife to make 2 shallow slashes on the surface of the dough. This helps the bread expand while baking.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until it's golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes before slicing.
Here is my crusty Italian bread just out of the oven in my 10-inch cast iron skillet. So, roll up your sleeves, gather some ingredients, and get ready to savor the taste of Italy.
KitchenAid KSM105GBCER 5-Qt. Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Glass Bowl and Flex Edge Beater - Empire Red
Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle - Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black
