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To make ciabatta bread, you need a few key ingredients. You will need all-purpose flour, warm water, active dry yeast, sea salt, and olive oil. These ciabatta bread ingredients work together to create the bread's unique texture and flavor.

Ciabatta Bread

Unlock the secrets to baking amazing ciabatta with this easy and flavorful guide! Perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers, this ciabatta bread recipe covers essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and valuable tips for achieving that perfect crunchy crust and airy interior. Ready to impress your friends and family?
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Ingredients
  

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)

1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast

2 teaspoons sea salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

Cornmeal for dusting

Instructions
 

In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sea salt. Mix well.

      Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir using a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.

        Knead the dough in the bowl for about 5 minutes until it comes together slightly. It will be quite sticky, which is normal for ciabatta.

          Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.

            Once the dough has risen, lightly dust your work surface with flour. Gently transfer the dough onto the surface, avoiding deflating it too much.

              Carefully shape the dough into a rectangular shape. Use scissors or a sharp knife to divide it into two equal pieces.

                Sprinkle cornmeal onto a baking sheet. Transfer the shaped dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them apart.

                  Cover the loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes.

                    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside.

                      Once the loaves have risen again, carefully slide them onto the hot baking stone or inverted sheet in the oven.

                        Pour a cup of hot water into a shallow baking pan placed on the bottom of the oven (this creates steam) and immediately close the oven door.

                          Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

                            Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing.

                              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 12 slices

                                - Presentation Tips: Serve warm, sliced with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. For an added touch, sprinkle with fresh herbs or sea salt before serving.