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Ingredients
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Bread Ingredients
Serving Ingredients
Method
Bread Preparation
- 1
Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) with sugar and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center, then pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- 4
First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- 5
Shape the Loaf
Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 6
Second Rise
Cover the shaped loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes until it puffs up again.
- 7
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) while the dough is rising for the second time.
- 8
Bake the Bread
Once the oven is hot, place the baking sheet with the loaf in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- 9
Cool the Bread
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Instructions
- 10
Prepare the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Stir gently to mix well.
- 11
Serve
Slice the crusty bread and serve warm with the olive oil and balsamic vinegar mixture for dipping.
