Crusty Italian Bread

Crusty Italian bread, with its golden brown exterior and soft, airy interior, is a culinary delight that captures the essence of Italian baking. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of crafting two loaves of this heavenly bread at home. From the essential ingredients to the secret techniques, you’ll discover the art of baking the perfect Crusty Italian Bread.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar.
   • Let it stand until it starts to bubble and foam.
2. Add Oil and Salt:
   • Mix in olive oil and salt.
   • Gradually add flour while mixing with a dough hook until the dough pulls away from the sides.
3. Let it Rise:
   • Cover the bowl and let the dough rise until it doubles in size (around 30 minutes).
4. Divide and Shape:
   • Punch down the dough.
   • Divide it in half and shape into two loaves.
5. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaves with a damp cloth and let them rise until doubled.
6. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
7. Prepare Egg Mixture:
   • Beat one egg with a tablespoon of water.
   • Brush the risen loaves with the egg mixture.
8. Score the Loaves:
   • Make a single long cut down the center of each loaf with a sharp knife.
9. Steam for Crust:
   • Place at least 1 cup of hot water in a shallow pan on the rack underneath the bread to create steam.
10. Bake:
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the loaves turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
11. Cool and Enjoy:
    • Remove from the pan and let the loaves cool on racks.
    • Optionally, rub butter over the hot crust for extra flavor.
12. Serve and Share:
    • Slice and enjoy your homemade Crusty Italian Bread with your favorite meals or as a delicious snack.