Easy Ciabatta Bread

By Addie

This bread has great texture. It is tasty as is or would make great sandwiches--especially if bread is toasted or grilled. It isn't any harder than any other bread. The dough is very wet/sticky, and is meant to be in order to create nice air pockets. Dimpling refers to pressing into the dough with your fingertips to help give it texture and a rustic look. Posted by: moms_rule_OH

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 3 1/4 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoon yeast

Preparation

Step 1

Place ingredients into bread machine in order suggested by manufacturer. Select dough cycle. When done, dough will be sticky--DO NOT ADD MORE FLOUR! Place dough on lightly floured surface and cover with large bowl, letting rest for 15 minutes.

Lightly flour or use parchment lined baking sheets. Divide dough into 2 pieces, and form into 13x14 ovals. Place on prepared sheets, dimple surface, and lightly flour. Cover, and let rise for approximately 45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Dimple dough again and place in oven on middle rack. Bake 25-30 minutes, spritzing with water every 5-10 minutes while baking for crisper crust.