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What Is the Most Famous Bread in Italy?

What Is the Most Famous Bread in Italy?

What Is the Most Famous Bread in Italy? Explore from Pane di Altamura to focaccia, and uncover their rich history, flavors, and traditions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g durum wheat flour (preferably semolina flour)

  • 300ml warm water

  • 10g sea salt

  • 5g active dry yeast (or natural starter for authenticity)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large bowl, mix the flour and yeast. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a rough dough forms.

    • Add the sea salt and knead the dough for about 10–15 minutes until smooth and elastic.

    • Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.

  • Shape and Second Rise:

    • Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf or a folded rustic form called “u sckuanète.”

    • Place it on a floured surface, cover again, and let it rise for another hour.

  • Bake:

    • Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F), ideally with a baking stone inside for an authentic crust.

    • Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife, then bake for 30–40 minutes until the crust is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

    • For an authentic touch, bake it on a stone or use a wood-fired oven if available.

 

  • Cool and Serve:

    • Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

    • Serve with olive oil, cheese, or as a side to your favorite Italian dishes.

Notes

For an even more traditional flavor, use a natural starter instead of active dry yeast. This will give the bread a deeper, tangy flavor and a chewier texture.

Nutrition

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