Ciabatta Tutorial

Ingredients

  • from cooksillustrated.com - photos at site

Preparation

Step 1


1. MAKE BIGA Combine yeast with small amounts of flour and water; let rest overnight to build flavor.

2. MAKE DOUGH, KNEAD Add biga to remaining dough ingredients; knead in stand mixer.

3. LET RISE Allow dough to rise at room temperature until doubled, about 1 hour.

4. TURN 8 TIMES Turn partially risen dough by folding it in on itself to gently encourage more gluten development. Let rise 30 minutes.

5. REPEAT STEP 4 More turning and rising ensure a loaf with just enough lift.

6. DIVIDE DOUGH Transfer dough to floured surface and halve with bench scraper.

7. PRESS Press each half into rough 12- by 6-inch rectangle.

8. SHAPE Fold each dough half like business letter into 7- by 4-inch loaf and let rest 30 minutes.

9. PRESS, SPRAY, BAKE Press out dough into 10- by 6-inch rectangles, spray with water, and bake.