Ciabatta Bread is a beloved Italian bread known for its rustic crust and airy, hole-ridden interior. This recipe, adapted for a bread machine, simplifies the traditional process without compromising on flavor or texture. It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking to recreate this iconic bread at home.
Ingredients
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to prepare two loaves of delicious Ciabatta Bread:
- Water: 1 1/2 cups
- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- White sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Bread flour: 3 1/4 cups
- Bread machine yeast: 1 1/2 teaspoons
Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation
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Preparation: Start by assembling your ingredients. Place them into the bread machine pan in the order recommended by the manufacturer. This typically means liquids first, followed by dry ingredients, and yeast last to avoid premature activation.
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Machine Settings: Select the “Dough” cycle on your bread machine and start it. This cycle will knead the dough and allow it to rise properly.
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Check Consistency: After the cycle completes, the dough will be sticky and wet. Resist the urge to add more flour; the high hydration is essential for Ciabatta’s characteristic open crumb structure.
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Rest the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and cover it with a large bowl. Let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period helps relax the gluten and makes the dough easier to handle.
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Prepare Baking Sheets: Meanwhile, lightly flour or line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Shape the Loaves: Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a 3×14 inch oval. The shape is distinctive for Ciabatta, being longer and flatter compared to other bread styles.
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Final Proofing: Place the shaped loaves onto the prepared baking sheets. Dimple the surface with your fingers and lightly dust with flour. Cover them loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a draft-free place for approximately 45 minutes. This second rise allows the dough to ferment slightly and develop flavor.
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Preheat Oven: While the loaves are proofing, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). The high initial temperature helps create a steamy environment in the oven, crucial for achieving a crisp crust.
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Final Preparation: Before baking, dimple the dough surface again gently. This step enhances the traditional appearance of Ciabatta loaves.
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Baking: Place the loaves in the preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. For an authentic crust, spritz the loaves with water every 5 to 10 minutes during the first half of baking. This technique mimics the steam injection of professional ovens, resulting in a beautifully crisp crust.
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Cooling: Once baked, transfer the Ciabatta loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This allows the residual heat to finish cooking the interior and ensures a perfect texture.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 136.2 per serving
- Fat Content: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 292.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 26.4g
- Fiber Content: 1.1g
- Sugar Content: 0.4g
- Protein Content: 3.7g
Tips for Success
- High Hydration: The sticky dough is characteristic of Ciabatta; resist the urge to add more flour during kneading or shaping.
- Steam in Oven: Spritzing the loaves with water during baking creates a crispy crust.
- Rest and Rise: These steps are crucial for developing the bread’s flavor and texture.
- Storage: Once cooled, store Ciabatta in a paper bag for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. It’s also delicious toasted with olive oil or used for sandwiches.
By following this detailed recipe, you’ll achieve homemade Ciabatta Bread that rivals any bakery’s offering. Its simplicity and robust flavor make it a staple for any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant brunches. Enjoy the process of baking this Italian classic and savor the rewards of your efforts with each delightful bite!
