If you’ve ever wanted to make the perfect ciabatta bread at home, this recipe is your go-to. It’s crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients, making it a healthier option. Here’s how to make this delightful bread from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt

• 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast

• 1 3/4 cups of warm water

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

• 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and sea salt. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water. Add the olive oil and honey (or maple syrup) to the yeast mixture, stirring gently to combine.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the flour and salt. Use a wooden spoon to mix until the ingredients are well combined and a sticky dough forms. You can also use your hands to bring the dough together if needed.

3. Let It Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The longer it rises, the better the flavor and texture will be.

4. Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, gently turn it out onto a well-floured surface. With floured hands, shape the dough into a rectangular loaf. Be careful not to deflate the dough too much; you want to preserve its airy structure.

5. Second Rise

Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes to an hour.

6. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Place a baking stone or an upside-down baking sheet in the oven to heat up. This helps achieve a crunchy crust.

7. Bake the Bread

Once the oven is hot, slide the parchment paper with the dough onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool and Enjoy

Remove the ciabatta bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to enjoy its full texture and flavor.

Tips for a Healthier Ciabatta

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients, making this bread healthier than its white flour counterpart.

• Natural Sweeteners: Honey or maple syrup provide a touch of sweetness without refined sugars.

• Olive Oil: A healthy fat that enhances the bread’s flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Making healthy ciabatta bread at home is easier than you might think. With this recipe, you’ll get a delicious, crunchy, and chewy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or simply enjoying on its own. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of homemade bread. Happy baking!