Crusty Italian Bread
A satisfying homemade crusty Italian bread perfect for sandwiches, soups, or simply enjoyed with butter and olive oil.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups water Warm, ideally around 110°F (43°C)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast Ensure it's fresh
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the water, yeast, and sugar. Let this mixture sit until it’s frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, until it has doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
- Use a sharp knife to score the top of the bread. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and crusty.
- After baking, cool the bread on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Store leftover bread in a paper bag or clean kitchen towel. Freeze for longer storage after slicing. Ensure yeast is fresh and knead well for texture.