Crusty Italian Bread

The right bread can make all the difference between an ordinary cheesesteak and a true Philly-style steak and cheese sandwich. If you’re from Philadelphia, you know exactly what I’m talking about. For everyone else, let me introduce you to the legendary Amoroso’s rolls. You see, in Philly, asking for a ‘Philly-style’ steak sandwich is like calling a restaurant in Italy ‘Italian.’ It’s just not necessary. It’s a cheesesteak, plain and simple. But outside of Philly, if you spot ‘Philly-style’ on a menu, it’s usually a sign that it’s not the real deal.

I miss those Amoroso’s rolls so much that I’ve decided to make my own crusty Italian bread. It might take a few tries to get it just right, but I’m determined to come as close as possible to that authentic taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crusty Italian bread is perfect for sandwiches, soups, or just enjoying with a slather of butter. It’s easy to make, with a chewy crust and soft interior that will transport your taste buds straight to a cozy Italian bakery.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Dough hook or sturdy wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Baking sheet
• Shallow pan for water
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

• 1 1/3 cups warm water
• 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 cups flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Stir and let it sit for a few minutes until it starts to bubble and foam.
2. Add the olive oil and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Knead with a dough hook for a few minutes.
3. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise until it doubles in size, about 30 minutes.
4. Punch down the dough, divide it in half, and shape into two loaves.
5. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise until doubled.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Beat together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water for the egg wash. Brush the risen loaves with this mixture.
8. Make a single, quick cut down the center of each loaf with a sharp knife.
9. Place at least 1 cup of hot water in a shallow pan on the rack under the bread to create steam, which helps form the crust. Add more water if needed during baking.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool on racks. For extra flavor, rub butter over the hot crust.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
• If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Don’t skip the steam bath; it’s crucial for a crunchy crust.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on the loaves before baking for added texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving is packed with carbohydrates to fuel your day, along with a modest amount of protein and healthy fats from the olive oil. Enjoy this bread in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a denser, heartier loaf, but you may need to adjust the water content slightly.

Q: How do I store the bread?
A: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze it and thaw before use.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple and delicious recipe for crusty Italian bread that you can make at home. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Share your experience and any tweaks you make in the comments below. Happy baking!