Easy and Budget-Friendly Ciabatta Bread

Ingredients

• • 500 g (3 + 1/3 cups) bread flour

• • 5 g (1 tsp) salt
  • 5 g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 375-400 ml water (start with 375 ml and add more if needed)

• 30 g (2 tbsp) olive oil

Directions

Activate the Yeast:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in 100 ml of warm water (from the 375-400 ml total) and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Mix the Dough:

2. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.

2. Add the yeast mixture, the remaining water, and olive oil to the flour mixture.
3. Mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a bit more water until the desired consistency is reached.

First Rise:

5. 5. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Dough:

6. 6. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
   7. Flour a work surface generously and gently transfer the dough onto it. Be careful not to deflate the dough too much.
   8. Shape the dough into a rough rectangle by folding it over itself a few times.

6. Transfer the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a floured cloth, cover it again, and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Bake:

10. 10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and has a crispy crust.
    11. To ensure a crispy crust, you can place a small pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam while baking.

Cool and Serve:

12. Remove the ciabatta bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
  • Use for sandwiches or paninis.

• Pair with soups or salads for a complete meal.