Italian Grissini Recipe: Homemade Breadsticks
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with this delightful recipe for Italian Grissini, a traditional breadstick that is both crispy and flavorful, perfect for snacking or as a companion to your favorite soups and dips. With a harmonious blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flour, these breadsticks are seasoned with red chili flakes and carom seeds, offering a unique twist that elevates their flavor profile. Let’s dive into the details and create these irresistible homemade delights.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1 cup |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Active Dry Yeast | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk (lukewarm) | 1/2 cup |
| Honey (or sugar) | 2 tablespoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Red Chili Flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lukewarm Water | For kneading |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 120 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 0.5g |
| Total Fat | 3.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Total Preparation | 140 |
| Cooking | 15 |
| Total Time | 155 |
Servings
| Number of Servings | 4 |
Instructions
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Activate the Yeast: Begin your journey by taking a small bowl and combining the lukewarm milk, honey, and active dry yeast. Stir the mixture gently to ensure that the yeast is fully dissolved. Cover the bowl with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it sit in a warm, dry place for about 7-8 minutes. During this time, the mixture should become frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Use a whisk or your hands to mix them thoroughly until well combined, ensuring an even distribution of the salt and flours.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: After the yeast mixture has become frothy, carefully pour it into the bowl of dry ingredients. Begin mixing slowly, incorporating the ingredients until they start to come together to form a dough. If the dough appears too dry, add lukewarm water, a little at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
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Knead the Dough: Once the ingredients are combined, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 7-8 minutes. The goal is to achieve a smooth and soft dough that is slightly elastic. If needed, you can lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking.
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First Rise: Lightly oil a large, clean bowl and place the kneaded dough into it, turning the dough around to coat it lightly in oil. Cover the bowl with cling wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
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Add Seasonings: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air pockets. If you wish to add an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle in the ajwain (carom seeds) and red chili flakes. Knead the dough briefly for just a few seconds to incorporate these ingredients evenly, being careful not to over-knead.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit). This ensures that your Grissini will bake evenly and achieve that desired crispiness.
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Shape the Breadsticks: Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it lightly with olive oil. Divide the dough into 16-17 equal pieces. Roll each piece into thin ropes, aiming for a length of around 12-13 inches and a thickness similar to that of a pencil. Once shaped, roll each stick in sesame seeds to coat them generously.
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Bake: Place the prepared Grissini on the greased baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about half an inch apart to allow for expansion during baking. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12-13 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, checking for a golden-brown color. The Grissini should be crisp and light when done.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the Grissini from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. This step is crucial as it helps them maintain their crisp texture. Serve these delightful Italian breadsticks with a bowl of Provençal Tomato Rice Soup or a vibrant Roasted Beet & Walnut Dip for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian Grissini make a fantastic snack on their own but can also be paired with various dips, soups, or salads. Their crunchy texture and flavorful seasoning will surely enhance any meal or gathering, making them a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade breadsticks that not only satisfy your cravings but also elevate your dining experience with a touch of Italian flair.
Buon Appetito!
