Description
Sunday-Table Rustic Ciabatta is a beautifully simple Italian-style bread with a crisp golden crust and a soft, airy interior filled with irregular holes. This bread is designed for sharing, making it perfect for relaxed family meals, dipping in olive oil, or building hearty sandwiches.
Introduction
Ciabatta is known for its rustic appearance and light texture, achieved through high hydration and gentle handling. This version is approachable for home bakers and requires minimal ingredients while delivering bakery-quality results. Whether served warm at the table or sliced for sandwiches, this ciabatta brings comfort and tradition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It uses simple pantry ingredients with no complicated techniques.
The dough develops flavor naturally through resting and folding.
The crust is crisp while the inside stays tender and chewy.
It’s versatile and works well for appetizers, sandwiches, and meals.
Ingredients
3 1/4 cups bread flour
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
1 tablespoon olive oil, for greasing
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
Substitute half the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Add dried rosemary or oregano for an herb-infused loaf.
Use sea salt or Himalayan pink salt for subtle flavor variation.
Replace olive oil with melted butter or infused oils such as garlic or chili oil for a richer taste.
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the yeast.
Gradually add the lukewarm water while stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 1 hour to allow hydration and gluten development.
Transfer the dough to a well-floured surface and gently shape it into a rough rectangle.
Fold the dough in thirds like a letter, rotate it 90 degrees, and fold again. Repeat this folding process several times to build structure.
Place the dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 45 minutes until puffy.
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside.
Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife, then carefully transfer it to the hot baking surface using the parchment paper.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool slightly before slicing.
Variations
Add caramelized onions and grated Parmesan for a savory version.
Use spelt or rye flour for unique flavor profiles.
Infused oils such as roasted garlic or truffle oil add depth.
For gluten-free ciabatta, use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum to improve structure.
Tips for the Best Results
Use bread flour for the best chewy texture.
Keep the water temperature around 110°F (43°C) to activate yeast safely.
Avoid adding excess flour, as ciabatta dough should remain sticky.
Create steam in the oven by placing a pan of hot water inside for a crispier crust.
Storage Tips
Store ciabatta at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 2 days.
Freeze sliced bread in airtight packaging for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and flaky sea salt.
Pair with cheeses, cured meats, olives, and roasted vegetables.
Toast slices for bruschetta topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic.
Use as sandwich bread with grilled vegetables, pesto, mozzarella, and arugula.
FAQs
Why is ciabatta dough so sticky?
High hydration creates the airy interior that ciabatta is known for.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight for deeper flavor development.
Do I need a baking stone?
No, an inverted baking sheet works well and produces excellent results.
How do I know when ciabatta is fully baked?
The loaf should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped underneath.
Conclusion
Sunday-Table Rustic Ciabatta is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Its crisp crust, open crumb, and rich flavor make it a perfect companion to shared meals and relaxed gatherings. Once you bake it at home, it’s sure to become a staple on your table.