Ricotta Baguettes

Ricotta Baguettes - A Homemade Delight

Who doesn't love the smell of freshly baked bread? This ricotta baguette recipe is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful. With a crispy crust and a soft crumb, these baguettes are perfect to be enjoyed alongside a dip, an appetizer, or even as a snack. Let's discover together how to make these treats at home, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4 baguettes

Ingredients

- 250 ml lukewarm water (approximately 37-40 degrees Celsius)
- 1 packet of dry yeast (7 g)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 550 g wheat flour (ideal for bread)
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 250 g ricotta

Brief history

Baguettes are a symbol of the art of baking, with a long and fascinating history. Often used as an accompaniment to various meals, they have evolved over time, taking on different shapes and textures. Adding ricotta to the dough brings extra moisture and a subtle flavor, making the baguettes not only delicious but also unique.

Step by step

1. Preparing the yeast mixture
In a small bowl, combine the packet of dry yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 125 ml of lukewarm water. Stir gently and let it sit in a warm place for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This is a crucial step, as the activated yeast will help the dough rise.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt. Make sure the salt is well distributed, as it affects the taste and final texture of the bread. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.

3. Combining the ingredients
Pour the activated yeast mixture into the well in the flour. Add the ricotta, the remaining lukewarm water, and the olive oil. Use a spoon to mix the ingredients until a dough begins to form.

4. Kneading the dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes soft and non-sticky. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as overly dry dough will affect the texture.

5. Rising the dough
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. You can use the oven (turned off) as an ideal rising spot, as the constant warmth will help the yeast do its job.

6. Shaping the baguettes
After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured table. Divide it into two equal parts. Roll each piece of dough into a thick sheet about 1.5 cm thick. Roll the sheet to form a long baguette. Place the baguettes on a tray lined with parchment paper, sprinkled with cornmeal to prevent sticking.

7. Final rising
With a sharp knife, make light cuts on the surface of the baguettes, then sprinkle them with a little flour. Cover the baguettes with a towel and let them rise for another 45 minutes.

8. Baking the baguettes
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Before placing the baguettes in, put a dish of water in the oven. The steam from the water will help achieve a crispy crust. Bake the baguettes for 30 minutes or until they are golden and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

9. Cooling and serving
After baking, let the baguettes cool on a rack. They can be served warm, alongside olive oil flavored with herbs, or used to make delicious sandwiches.

Suggestions and variations

For an extra flavor boost, you can add fresh herbs such as rosemary or basil to the dough. You can also try replacing ricotta with goat cheese for a distinct flavor. If you prefer baguettes with a denser texture, you can use some whole wheat flour.

Nutritional benefits

Ricotta is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and B vitamins. Adding it to the baguettes contributes to a softer texture and pleasant flavor. Whole wheat flour provides essential fiber for healthy digestion, and olive oil adds healthy fats to the diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use fresh yeast; make sure to use about 25 g of fresh yeast.

2. Can I freeze the baguettes?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baguettes after they have completely cooled. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

3. What can I serve the baguettes with?
Ricotta baguettes are excellent alongside soups, salads, or as a base for bruschetta.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
Certainly! You can add olives, red peppers, or even nuts for a delicious variation.

Personal note

I remember when I first made these ricotta baguettes for a family dinner. The smell of fresh bread filled the entire house, and every bite was accompanied by smiles and stories. This recipe is not just about cooking, but also about creating memories.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to venture into the delicious world of ricotta baguettes. Remember, every slice of bread you make is a story waiting to be shared. Happy cooking!