| Prep: 2 hours | Cook: 15 mins – 20 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 198 | 4.1g | 0.6g | 36.1g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 0.6g | 1.3g | 5.5g | 0.98g |
About Ciabatta Roll
There’s nothing quite as delightful as the comforting taste of a freshly baked Ciabatta Roll. Known for its characteristically unique texture and light crumb, this wonderful bread is a staple in homes and restaurants globally. The beautiful combination of simple ingredients like bread flour, table salt, white sugar, active dry yeast, warm water, olive oil, and a touch of cornmeal, creates an unmistakable taste in every bite. 
The Origins and Influences
Traditionally hailing from Italy, this bread’s creation is a testament to the Italian’s love for perfect blend of crusty outside and soft inside of a bread. While it may seem daunting to make at home, the process is fairly straightforward, rewarding you with a delightful loaf that pairs brilliantly with a wide range of cuisines and dishes, akin to the much-loved French Baguette.
Intricacies of the Ciabatta Roll
What sets the Ciabatta Roll apart from other breads is its delicate balance of texture and taste. The outer crust is delectably crispy, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the inside remains soft, airy, and tantalizingly moist. It’s these distinguishing characteristics that make the Ciabatta Roll versatile, and a cherished inclusion in a plethora of meals, from hearty Italian paninis to a simple, rustic bruschetta. In fact, its attributes are often compared to those of a Bâtard, another widely loved European bread loaf.
Culinary Compositions
Whether used as the base for a sandwich, soaked in olive oil as antipasto, or simply consumed as it is, the Ciabatta Roll never fails to impress. It carries sauces and complements fillings exceptionally well, making it an ideal participant in any sandwich. Moreover, its ability to soak up broths and sauces accommodates for a deliciously spongy bite which sends your taste buds on a heavenly journey, much like the famous Crostini.
And let’s not forget the delightful experience of the roll simply enjoyed fresh out of the oven. A light smearing of butter, a drizzle of good quality olive oil, or perhaps even some freshly crushed garlic, and you’re in for a simple yet decadicent treat that will leave you reaching for more!
Undoubtedly, the Ciabatta Roll holds a beloved spot on the culinary stage, and once you’ve had a taste, it’s easy to see why.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Extra flour for dusting
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal
Method
Step One
First, combine your bread flour, table salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step Two
Next, in a separate small bowl, add your active dry yeast. Pour the warm water over the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This activates the yeast and helps it to work in your bread dough.
Step Three
Now, add the yeast mixture to your flour mixture. Mix thoroughly, then slowly add in your olive oil while continuing to stir. Continue to mix until your dough comes together in a sticky ball.
Step Four
Transfer the dough onto a clean surface dusted with flour. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. It’s important to knead your dough sufficiently to promote gluten development which will give your rolls their structure.
Step Five
Place the kneaded dough into a well-oiled bowl, cover it and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is called proofing, and it’s a crucial step in bread baking.
Step Six
Once your dough has proofed, remove it from the bowl and divide it into your desired portions for rolls, shaping each portion into a roll shape. Take the time to shape your rolls carefully, as they’ll expand and hold their shape while baking.
Step Seven
Place your shaped rolls onto a baking sheet that has been dusted with cornmeal. This will prevent the rolls from sticking to the sheet while baking. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) and bake the rolls for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.
Step Eight
Finally, remove your ciabatta rolls from the oven and let them cool before serving. Enjoy your homemade ciabatta rolls with dinner, as a sandwich, or as a snack!
