Easy Italian Crusty Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 packets active dry yeast

• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)

• 2 1/2 cups water (lukewarm)

• 1 1/2 tablespoons fine Himalayan salt

• 6 1/2 cups flour

• Cornmeal (for dusting)

• Optional: Seeds (e.g., sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds)

Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is activated.

   
   

2. Mix the Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture, lukewarm water, salt, and 4 cups of the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough is slightly sticky but manageable.

   
   

3. Knead the Dough Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment and knead for 5-7 minutes.

   
   

4. First Rise Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

   
   

5. Shape the Dough Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each part into a round boule or oblong loaf. Place the loaves on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal to prevent sticking. If adding seeds, lightly press them onto the surface of the loaves.

   
   

6. Second Rise Cover the loaves with a damp towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they double in size.

   
   

7. Preheat the Oven Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place an empty baking dish or pan on the lower rack of the oven to create steam later.

   
   

8. Score and Bake Using a sharp knife or bread lame, score the tops of the loaves with 2-3 diagonal cuts. This helps the bread expand while baking. Place the loaves in the oven, and carefully pour a cup of water into the hot pan to create steam. This will give the bread its signature crusty texture.

   
   

9. Bake Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

   
   

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