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Ingredients
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Bread Dough
Topping
Method
Bread Preparation
- 1
Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
- 3
- 4
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- 5
First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking
- 6
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 7
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf.
- 8
Second Rise
Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- 9
Prepare the Topping
While the dough is rising, mix the extra virgin olive oil and coarse sea salt in a small bowl. If using, chop the fresh rosemary and add it to the oil mixture.
- 10
Add the Topping and Bake
After the second rise, drizzle the olive oil mixture over the loaf. Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- 11
Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with more il Buco olive oil if desired.
