Country: Italy Servings: Serves 6

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour – 4 cups / 480 g
• Warm water – 1 1/2 cups / 360 ml
• Active dry yeast – 2 1/4 tsp / 7 g
• Salt – 1 1/2 tsp / 9 g
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Let the loaf rise for another 30 minutes, then slash the top with a sharp knife.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Substitutions

• All-purpose flour -> Bread flour
• Olive oil -> Melted butter

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to the yeast mixture for a slightly sweeter bread.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough before kneading for an aromatic twist.
• Use a preheated pizza stone for a crispier crust.