Certainly! Here’s a simple recipe for Italian bread with sesame seeds:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water with the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Make the dough: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles.
- Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a round or oval loaf.
- Second rise: Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them with a clean kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Score the loaves: Using a sharp knife or bread lame, make shallow cuts on the surface of the loaves.
- Apply sesame seeds: Brush the surface of the loaves with water or egg wash, then sprinkle sesame seeds generously on top.
- Bake: Place the loaves in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your freshly baked Italian bread with sesame seeds!
