Italian Bread
There’s something truly special about baking your own Italian bread from scratch. From the moment you start kneading the dough to the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes, the whole process is a delightful and rewarding experience.
The Therapeutic Art of Kneading
When you begin kneading the dough, there’s a sense of satisfaction that comes with feeling it transform from a sticky mess into a smooth, elastic ball. With each fold and push, you can’t help but be reminded of how making bread is a timeless tradition that has been passed down through generations.
The Aroma that Fills Your Home
As the freshly baked Italian bread starts to take shape in the oven, an irresistible scent begins to waft through the air. It’s a heavenly combination of warm yeast, toasty crust, and comforting nostalgia. The anticipation builds as you catch whiffs of this intoxicating aroma, knowing that soon you’ll be indulging in a slice of homemade goodness.
One of the best parts of baking your own Italian bread is being able to share it with others. Whether it’s for a family meal or an intimate gathering with friends, nothing beats the joy of seeing their faces light up when they bite into a piece of your homemade creation. The crispy crust and soft, flavorful interior create a sensory experience that leaves everyone wanting more.
Baking Your Own Italian Bread
While traditional Italian bread recipes are wonderful, part of the beauty of baking your own is the opportunity to add your personal touch. You can experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or even shape the loaf into unique forms. The process allows you to unleash your creativity and make each batch uniquely yours.
Baking Italian bread is not only enjoyable, but it’s also a journey of continuous learning. Each attempt provides an opportunity to refine your technique, understand the science behind bread-making, and strive for the perfect loaf. With each subsequent batch, you’ll notice your skills improving, and the satisfaction that comes with this progress is truly gratifying.
So, the next time you have a craving for delicious, homemade Italian bread, why not take the plunge and give it a try? Not only will you be rewarded with a wonderful culinary experience, but you’ll also find yourself captivated by the magic of baking and the joy it brings into your life.
Italian Bread
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast 2 packets
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 2 cups hot water hot to the touch not boiling
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 5-6 cups all-purpose flour add more if needed to get to a pliable dough
- 1 large egg white for brushing on loaves
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast, 1/2 cup warm water, and 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar in a small bowl.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine 2 cups hot water, 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, the salt, and the oil. Add 3 cups of flour to the mixture in this large bowl/mixer and mix well. Stir in yeast mixture.
- Add 2 – 3 cups more flour and mix until well blended. (At this point your dough will still be quite sticky). Leave in bowl, cover with a towel and let rise for 1 hour. (If using a mixer, remove the bowl from the mixer and cover. Otherwise your paddle attachment or dough hook will get covered in dough when it rises). NO KNEADING IS REQUIRED.
- After the rise, if the dough is too sticky to handle, add more flour until its workable. For some people this can be up to a cup or more! Just don’t dry out the dough. Add by quarter cupfuls until its workable.
- Divide dough into 2 (or 3 if you want smaller loaves) pieces. Roll out each piece on a floured surface into the length desired then roll up lengthwise like a jelly roll. If it’s still too sticky, add more flour until it’s workable but not dry.
- Put on a greased cookie sheet, sealed side down, and tuck the ends under. Slash the top diagonally across the top every couple of inches with a sharp knife.
- Cover and let loaves rise 30 more minutes.
- While loaves are rising, preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Whisk the egg white and brush over the top of loaves.
- Bake for 25 – 30 minutes.
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