Ciabatta

Indulge in the rustic charm of freshly baked ciabatta, the iconic Italian slipper-shaped bread, with this simple and delightful recipe. Using the Sicilian Dough with Starter, making ciabatta is a breeze, and the results are a pair of mouthwatering loaves that are perfect for sandwiches, serving alongside a meal, or transforming into a delectable After-School Ciabatta Pizza. The unique slipper-fold technique gives the ciabatta its characteristic shape and a wonderfully crisp crust. Spraying the loaves in the oven creates a moist and tender exterior, allowing the dough to rise further before the crust sets. With the alluring aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, you’ll be eager to taste the exquisite flavors and savor the perfect textures of this beloved Italian classic.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 (20-ounce/540-gram) balls Sicilian Dough with Starter, made with Poolish
• 3 parts semolina mixed with 1 part flour, for dusting

PREPARATIONS:

1. Remove the dough balls from the refrigerator and leave wrapped at room temperature until the dough warms to 60°F to 65°F.
2. Dust the work surface with the dusting mixture, then move the dough to the surface and dust the top.
3. Fold the dough to form a rectangle, fold in the long sides to meet in the center, and pinch the seam to seal well.
4. Shape the dough into a slipper shape and sprinkle the top with the dusting mixture.
5. Cover the loaves with a damp dish towel and let them rest for 1½ hours to rise slightly.

YIELD:

• Makes 2 loaves

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Measure the depth of your baking stones and set up the oven with two pizza stones or baking steels and preheat to 425°F for 1 hour.
2. Sprinkle a wooden peel with the dusting mixture and transfer the loaves onto it.
3. Score the top of each loaf with three evenly spaced diagonal slits.
4. Mist the loaf with water and continue baking, rotating the loaves as needed.
5. Transfer the loaves to a cooling rack to rest for at least 2 hours before cutting.

TIPS:

• For a crustier ciabatta, place a pan with water in the oven to create steam during baking.
• Avoid overworking the dough during shaping to maintain the airy texture of ciabatta.
• Experiment with different toppings, such as sesame seeds or roasted garlic, to add extra flavor and texture to the loaves.

Ciabatta, the Italian slipper-shaped bread, delights with its rustic charm and exquisite flavors. Crafted using the Sicilian Dough with Starter, making ciabatta at home becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience. The slipper-fold technique creates the bread’s signature shape, while the spraying of the loaves in the oven adds moisture for a tender exterior. As the ciabatta bakes to a rich golden brown, the enticing aroma of fresh bread fills the kitchen, building anticipation for the first delightful bite.

The versatility of ciabatta makes it a beloved choice for various occasions. Its airy and light texture makes it ideal for sandwiches, pairing perfectly with savory or sweet fillings. Slicing the ciabatta horizontally, it transforms into the perfect bread for a hearty panini or a light and refreshing Caprese sandwich. The crusty exterior and soft interior of the bread add an extra dimension to each bite.

Serving ciabatta alongside a meal elevates any dining experience, as its rich flavors complement a variety of dishes. From hearty stews to flavorful salads, ciabatta harmonizes with different flavors and cuisines. Its iconic shape and inviting aroma make it a centerpiece of any mealtime spread.

Additionally, the ciabatta dough can be transformed into a delicious After-School Ciabatta Pizza, bringing joy to the entire family. The distinct taste and lightness of the bread provide a delightful base for an array of toppings, satisfying every pizza craving with a touch of Italian authenticity.

As you embark on the journey of making ciabatta, take note of a few tips to achieve the best results. Creating steam in the oven by placing a pan with water enhances the crustiness of the bread. Avoid overworking the dough during shaping, allowing it to retain its airy texture. Additionally, feel free to experiment with various toppings, such as sesame seeds or roasted garlic, to add unique flavors and textures to your ciabatta loaves.