Ciabatta is one of Italy’s most beloved breads, known for its crisp crust, open crumb, and delightful chewiness. Its name, meaning “slipper” in Italian, comes from its broad and flat shape. Originating in the Veneto region in the 1980s, ciabatta quickly gained popularity worldwide due to its rustic appeal and versatility in sandwiches and gourmet meals.
Ingredients for Homemade Ciabatta
To create an authentic ciabatta bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Biga (Starter):
• 1 cup (120g) bread flour
• ½ cup (120ml) water
• ¼ teaspoon active dry yeast
For the Dough:
• 2 cups (240g) bread flour
• ¾ cup (180ml) water
• ½ teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil