Homemade Ciabatta

Homemade Ciabatta – Rustic Italian Bread with Chewy Crumb and Crusty Crust

Introduction

Ciabatta, which means “slipper” in Italian, is a rustic bread beloved for its airy, open crumb and crisp, golden crust. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or alongside soups and stews, this classic Italian bread relies on a preferment called biga to develop its signature flavor and texture. While it requires some patience, the process is simple, and the result is an authentic, chewy loaf that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

For the Biga (Preferment):

• 125 g (1 cup) bread or all-purpose flour
• 75 ml (5 tbsp) water
• A pinch of instant or active dry yeast

For the Dough:

• Prepared biga
• 250 g (2 cups) additional bread or all-purpose flour
• 150 ml (⅔ cup) lukewarm water
• 1 tsp instant or active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• Optional: cornmeal or semolina for dusting

Directions