Italian white bread

Italian White Bread - Fluffy Recipe for Bread Machine

Italian white bread is a symbol of culinary tradition, bringing warmth and comfort in every slice. This simple and delicious recipe, prepared with the help of a bread machine, will delight you with its fluffy texture and golden crust, perfect for enjoying alongside various dishes. Additionally, it offers you the chance to experience the joy of baking bread at home, without requiring advanced baking skills.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 10 slices

Ingredients:

- 300 ml water (or milk, for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey, for a more natural taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 g dry yeast or 20 g fresh yeast
- 550 g high-quality white flour

Quick history of Italian white bread:
Over the centuries, bread has been an essential element in the diet of people around the world. In Italy, white bread has evolved from a basic necessity into a crafted product, with each region having its own variations. Italian bread is often characterized by its crunchy crust and soft crumb, and the use of simple yet quality ingredients makes its flavor exceptional.

Ingredient details:
1. White flour: Choose a type 550 flour, which has a higher gluten content, contributing to the fluffy texture of the bread.
2. Olive oil: Not only provides a pleasant taste but also a softer texture. Look for extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
3. Yeast: Dry yeast is very convenient, but if you choose fresh yeast, make sure to dissolve it in warm water before use to activate fermentation.
4. Sugar or honey: These help activate the yeast and enhance the flavor of the bread.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Measure all ingredients accurately. This is an essential step in baking, where even a small variation can influence the final result.

2. Adding ingredients to the bread machine:
- Start by adding water (or milk) to the bread machine's pan.
- Add olive oil, then sugar (or honey) and salt. It is important that the salt does not come into direct contact with the yeast, as the latter needs a slightly sweeter environment to activate fermentation.
- Then add the flour, ensuring it completely covers the liquids.
- Finally, add the yeast, whether dry or fresh.

3. Setting the bread machine: Select Program 1 - Basic Bread 1 Kg - Dark Crust. This setting will ensure even baking and a perfect texture.

4. Wait: The machine will do the rest! During baking, the delicious aroma will fill the house, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

5. The last 15 minutes: About 15 minutes before the program ends, open the machine's lid and brush the bread with a beaten egg yolk. This will give it a golden color and an appetizing appearance.

6. Cooling the bread: Once the program is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a rack. This step is crucial to prevent a soggy crust.

Tips and useful advice:
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add dried herbs (such as rosemary or oregano) to the dough.
- For an even crunchier crust, you can spray water on the interior walls of the bread machine in the first minutes of baking.
- The bread keeps well in a paper bag or plastic container, but it is best consumed within the first few days to enjoy its freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why use water instead of milk? Water is a standard ingredient, but milk adds a richer flavor and a softer texture.
- What to do if the yeast does not rise? Check if the water is too hot or too cold, as temperature affects yeast activity.
- Can I add seeds or nuts? Absolutely! Adding sesame seeds or nuts brings extra texture and flavor.

Serving and pairing:
This Italian white bread pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or can be used to make delicious sandwiches. You can also serve it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple yet elegant snack. For a quick dessert, try lightly toasting it and serving it with butter and jam.

Nutritional benefits:
White bread, especially when made at home, can be a source of essential carbohydrates. Adding olive oil brings healthy fatty acids, and by choosing quality ingredients, you can control the intake of sugar and salt.

Possible variations:
- Olive bread: add chopped black or green olives to the dough for a Mediterranean taste.
- Cheese bread: incorporate pieces of mozzarella or parmesan cheese for an intensified flavor.
- Seed bread: add pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.

Enjoy every moment of the cooking process and savor the final result! This Italian white bread recipe is not just a simple dish, but a culinary experience that will bring smiles and unforgettable moments with your loved ones.