Description
Discover how to make perfect panini bread from scratch with this comprehensive guide, including tips, variations, and delicious pairing ideas.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water with the sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Knead: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into smaller portions (around 4-6 pieces), shape them into oval loaves, and let them rest for another 20 minutes.
- Cook the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour each portion and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread has a golden crust and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: After baking, allow the bread to cool completely before using it for your panini. This will ensure the bread has the perfect texture for grilling.
Notes
Tips for Making Perfect Panini Bread
- Use the Right Flour: Opt for all-purpose flour for a balanced texture. For a heartier loaf, mix in some whole wheat flour.
- Olive Oil for Flavor: Adding olive oil gives the bread a slight richness and an authentic Italian flavor.
- Achieve a Crispy Crust: Spraying water into the oven just before baking helps create steam, resulting in a crispier crust.
- Proper Kneading: Kneading the dough for a sufficient amount of time develops the gluten, which contributes to the airy, chewy interior. This texture is essential for bread that will be grilled.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0g