Authentic Italian Ciabatta Bread: A Step-By-Step Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups Bread Flour
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
Extra flour for dusting

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the flour and warm water. Stir until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
Sprinkle the yeast over the dough and gently stir it in. Let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
Add the salt and sugar to the dough and stir until they are fully incorporated.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for 10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Coat a separate large bowl with the olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you have a baking stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. If you don’t have a baking stone, place a large baking sheet in the oven instead.
Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a rectangle and then fold the long sides in towards the middle. Place the loaves on a piece of parchment paper.
Bake the ciabatta for 25 to 30 minutes or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Allow the ciabatta to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tools for making

Large Bowl - Used for mixing the dough and allowing it to rise.
Measuring Cups - For accurately measuring the ingredients.
Measuring Spoons - For precise measurement of small amounts of ingredients like yeast, salt, and sugar.
Wooden Spoon - To stir and combine the dough ingredients.
Flour Sifter - Optional, but useful for sifting the flour to ensure it is free of lumps.
Bench Scraper - Helps to scrape and fold the dough during kneading.
Parchment Paper - Used for placing the shaped dough on before baking.
Baking Stone or Baking Sheet - For baking the ciabatta in the oven.
Kitchen Towel - To cover the dough while it rises.
Wire Rack - To cool the baked ciabatta loaves.

Recipe variations

Whole Wheat Ciabatta: Substitute half or all of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Herb Ciabatta: Add dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil to the dough for a flavorful twist.
Cheese-stuffed Ciabatta: Slice the ciabatta in half horizontally and fill it with your favorite cheese before baking for a gooey and delicious variation.
Garlic Ciabatta: Mix minced garlic into the dough for a fragrant and savory bread.
Olive Ciabatta: Fold pitted and chopped olives into the dough before shaping and baking.
Spicy Ciabatta: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the dough for a kick of heat.
Gluten-Free Ciabatta: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of bread flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Ciabatta: Omit any animal-derived ingredients such as eggs or dairy and use plant-based alternatives like almond milk or vegan butter.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you in making delectable homemade Ciabatta. Originating from Italy, Ciabatta is a popular white bread boasting a crusty exterior and a soft, airy interior. The process involves creating a sticky dough, allowing it to rise, and shaping it into rustic loaves before baking. The recipe does not require advanced baking skills and can be completed within a few hours. The result is a beautifully baked Ciabatta with a tantalizing aroma and a delightful texture—perfect for sandwiches or as a side to your favorite dishes. Enjoy the process and the satisfying taste of your homemade Ciabatta!

Common questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for bread flour. However, keep in mind that the texture and rise of the ciabatta may be slightly different.
Can I make the dough without a stand mixer? Absolutely! While a stand mixer can make the kneading process easier, you can also knead the dough by hand. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout!
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. After the dough has risen, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. Just make sure to bring the dough to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.
Can I freeze the baked ciabatta? Yes, you can freeze the baked ciabatta. Make sure to cool the bread completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I add other ingredients like herbs or cheese to the dough? Absolutely! You can customize your ciabatta by adding herbs, cheese, or other ingredients to the dough. Just make sure to adjust the measurements accordingly and incorporate them during the mixing process.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the ingredients and mix the dough.
Bench Scraper - Useful for scraping the dough off the surface and dividing it into portions.
Kitchen Towel - To cover the dough while it rises and keep it warm.
Baking Stone or Baking Sheet - A baking surface to achieve a crispy crust. A stone is preferred, but a baking sheet can be used as an alternative.
Parchment Paper - To prevent the dough from sticking to the baking surface.
Wire Rack - For cooling the baked ciabatta loaves and allowing air circulation.
Bread Knife - For slicing the cooled ciabatta into individual servings.

Origin stories

Ciabatta is a classic example of the delightful simplicity of Italian cuisine. This bread was invented in 1982 by a baker named Arnaldo Cavallari in the small town of Adria, Veneto, Italy. The name 'Ciabatta' translates to 'slipper' in English, chosen due to the bread's resemblance to a slipper. It was developed as a response to the popular French Baguettes and quickly became a staple in Italian households due to its versatility. The bread's unique characteristics - its crispy crust, porous texture, and moist interior - make it perfect for sandwiches or for simply dipping in olive oil. So each time you relish a piece of Ciabatta, you're enjoying a slice of Italian innovation.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.