Savor the Flavor

Italian Bread

Ingredients: 1 package active Dry Yeast 1 cup warm water (105 to 115 degrees) 1 tbsp. salt 2 cups warm water 6-7 cups flour

Cornmeal OR Extra Flour 3 tbsps. melted butter

Instructions: Dissolve yeast in 1 cup warmwater, let stand 5 min. Dissolve salt in 2 cups warm water. Putt 5 cups flour in a large bout, add wet ingredients, mix well. Add enough remaining flour to make a workable dough. Turn out onto a lightly floured board and knead for 10 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic and has a satiny sheen. Or using a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix for 7-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl and turn once to grease the top. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap; place in warm draft-free place till doubled in bulk 1 to 1-1/2 hours. Turn dough out on board and knead for five more minutes. Divide dough into two pieces and round each piece into a ball. Return to grease bowl, turning once and cover as before. Approximately 40-60 minutes. Separate pieces of dough, roll each ball into an oblong shape using both hands. Sprinkle with flour or cornmeal. Place formed loaves on parchment paper, on a baking sheet, cover and let rise till doubled in size. About 30 min. Brush the tops with melted butter. Make one slash, about an inch deep, down the entire length of the loaves. Place in the oven at 375 for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Makes 2 loaves.

Anonymous Contribution, Italy

Savor The Flavor

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