Ciabatta Bread is a popular Italian food that is commonly used in sandwiches, specifically panini sandwiches. While the bread can be easily purchased, making it at home is fairly easy. To find out more about this bread, read on to learn how to make ciabatta bread.
Making Ciabatta Bread From Start to Finish
In this instructional video, Greg from DinnerTimeTV shows the process of making ciabatta bread from start to finish. As he demonstrates, the entire process takes in excess of four hours, but much of the time is for letting the dough rise. Greg recommends letting the dough rise in the microwave with a cup of warm water.
Introduction
Also known as "slipper bread," basic ciabatta bread contains flour, yeast and water. The recipe allows for additions like spices to make the bread versatile for a variety of uses. To make ciabatta bread, you will need to gather your ingredients, prepare, bake and serve.
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
Sponge Ingredients
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Bread Ingredients |
Step 2: Prepare Ciabatta Bread
- Prepare the sponge by mixing together the 1/8 teaspoon yeast and warm water in a large bowl. Let stand for five minutes or until frothy.
- Add in the 1/3 cup room-temperature water and one cup bread flour. Stir for four minutes.
- Cover with plastic wrap and let stand for at least 12 hours.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 teaspoon yeast and warm milk. Let stand for five minutes or until frothy.
- Add the yeast and milk mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer along with the sponge, remaining water, olive oil and water.
- Mix using a dough hook on medium speed for three minutes.
- Add the salt and mix for an additional four to five minutes.
- Transfer the dough to a greased large bowl and cover with plastic wrap.
- Allow to sit for one to two hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper and flour.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide into two equal parts.
- Place each dough portion on its own lined baking sheet and form into an oval about ten inches long.
- Lightly dust the loaves with flour, cover with a damp towel and allow to rise for one to two hours.
- Preheat your oven to 452 degrees F.
- Bake on the lined baking sheets or a heated pizza stone for 20 minutes or until just golden.
- Remove the bread and allow to cool on wire racks.
- Slice, serve and enjoy!
Ciabatta Bread Variations
- Add your choice of spices, like garlic powder, oregano, parsley or basil, to make the recipe your own.
- The dough can be mixed in a bread machine, then baked in a standard oven.
- Dust with cornmeal before baking if desired rather than flour.
