Rustic Italian Bread (ABM) Recipe
If you’re a fan of the earthy, golden-brown crust and soft, airy texture that defines traditional rustic Italian bread, this recipe is a must-try. Using a bread machine for the dough preparation ensures simplicity, while baking it in the oven adds that artisanal, rustic touch that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for family gatherings or when you want a comforting homemade loaf. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility: if you don’t have a bread machine, you can just use a stand mixer with a dough hook for the kneading process. Whichever method you choose, this bread rises beautifully, giving you a deliciously crispy crust and a tender interior. Let’s dive into the full recipe, which includes both machine and hand methods for your convenience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Warm water | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Bread flour | 3 cups |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 tbsp |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
| Active dry yeast | 1 tbsp |
| Cornmeal (for dusting) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 84 |
| Fat content | 1.6 g |
| Saturated fat content | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 90.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 14.9 g |
| Fiber | 0.6 g |
| Sugar | 0.5 g |
| Protein | 2.3 g |
Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by adding the bread flour, all-purpose flour, olive oil, salt, sugar, yeast, and warm water to your bread machine’s pan, following the manufacturer’s instructions. |
| 2 | Set your bread machine to the dough setting. This will mix and knead the dough to perfection. |
| 3 | As the machine is mixing, check the dough’s consistency. It should form a soft, sticky ball. If it feels too dry, add a little more water; if it’s too wet, add a bit more flour. |
| 4 | Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough from the machine. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). |
| 5 | Lightly sprinkle a baking sheet with cornmeal to prevent sticking and add a rustic touch to the finished loaf. |
| 6 | Punch the dough down to release the air. Shape it into either a long, oval loaf or a round boule, depending on your preference. |
| 7 | Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for an additional 25 minutes. It should double in size during this time. |
| 8 | Uncover the dough and, using a sharp knife or razor blade, make a few slashes on the top of the loaf to allow for even expansion while baking. |
| 9 | Lightly beat an egg white and brush it over the surface of the loaf for a glossy, golden crust. |
| 10 | Bake the bread for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. This indicates it’s fully baked. |
| 11 | Remove from the oven and let the bread cool completely before slicing and serving. |
Tips for Success:
- Yeast Activation: Always ensure your water is warm (but not hot) to activate the yeast properly. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
- Kneading Method: If you don’t have a bread machine, you can also make this bread using a stand mixer with a dough hook. Just mix the ingredients on low speed until the dough forms, then increase the speed to knead for about 5-7 minutes.
- Flour Choice: For an even more rustic texture, try using a combination of whole wheat and white bread flour. This will add an extra depth of flavor and slightly denser texture.
- Cornmeal for Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture on your crust, you can omit the cornmeal, but it does provide a lovely crunch and helps to prevent sticking.
This Rustic Italian Bread is the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness. With its golden crust, airy inside, and faintly tangy flavor, it’s an instant hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re serving it alongside soups, pasta, or just enjoying it with a dollop of butter, this bread brings a touch of homemade goodness to every meal. Enjoy making this delicious loaf with your family and friends!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (163 Reviews)
Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 20 slices
Yield: 1 large loaf
