Easy and Budget-Friendly Ciabatta Bread

Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make delicious and budget-friendly Ciabatta Bread. This classic Italian bread is known for its airy texture and crispy crust, making it perfect for sandwiches or dipping in olive oil. Let’s get baking! 💖

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Rise Time: 1-2 hours
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes – 2 hours 35 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 500 g (3 + 1/3 cups) bread flour
  • 5 g (1 tsp) salt
  • 5 g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 375-400 ml water (start with 375 ml and add more if needed)
  • 30 g (2 tbsp) olive oil

Directions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

  • In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in 100 ml of warm water (from the 375-400 ml total) and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix the Dough:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.
  • Add the yeast mixture, the remaining water, and olive oil to the flour mixture.
  • Mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a bit more water until the desired consistency is reached.

3. First Rise:

  • Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

4. Shape the Dough:

  • Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
  • Flour a work surface generously and gently transfer the dough onto it. Be careful not to deflate the dough too much.
  • Shape the dough into a rough rectangle by folding it over itself a few times.
  • Transfer the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a floured cloth, cover it again, and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

5. Bake:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and has a crispy crust.
  • To ensure a crispy crust, you can place a small pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam while baking.

6. Cool and Serve:

  • Remove the ciabatta bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
  • Use for sandwiches or paninis.
  • Pair with soups or salads for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips:

  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
  • Handle the dough gently to maintain its airy texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats.
  • Bread Flour: Higher protein content for better gluten development.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Vegan: Yes

Storage Tips:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Simple and budget-friendly.
  • Airy and crispy texture.
  • Perfect for various meals and occasions.

Conclusion:

Enjoy this easy and budget-friendly ciabatta bread for a delicious and versatile addition to your meals. It’s simple to make, and the results are absolutely delightful. Happy baking! 💖