Rustic Italian Ciabatta

Ingredients

• 500 g bread flour
• 370 ml water (room temperature)
• 10 g salt
• 5 g dry yeast
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Proofing basket
• Baking stone or baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Kitchen scale
• Clean kitchen towel

Recipe Overview

Rustic Italian Ciabatta is a classic artisan bread known for its crisp, golden crust and airy, open crumb. The name "ciabatta" means "slipper" in Italian, referring to the flat, elongated shape of the bread. Its rustic texture and mild flavor make it a versatile choice for sandwiches or dipping in olive oil. Originating from Italy, this beloved bread has become a staple in bakeries worldwide. With simple ingredients and a slow fermentation process, the result is a beautifully crusty bread with a chewy, flavorful interior. Follow this step-by-step recipe to bake your own Classic Rustic Ciabatta at home.

Recipe Detail

To make the perfect Classic Rustic Ciabatta, start by mixing the flour, water, salt, yeast, and olive oil into a sticky dough. Allow the dough to rest, then develop gluten through gentle folding. After proofing, shape the loaves and bake on a hot stone for a crisp, airy result.

• Mix flour, yeast, and water until well combined. Let it rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
• Add salt and olive oil, and knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
• Transfer to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour (or until doubled).
• Gently fold the dough in the bowl and let rise for another 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F) with a baking stone or sheet inside.
• Gently shape the dough into two oblong loaves on a floured surface.
• Transfer loaves onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crusty.
• Cool on a wire rack before slicing.