The Art of Making Ciabatta Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ciabatta bread, with its rustic look and delightful texture, is a favorite among bread lovers. Originating from Italy, this loaf boasts a crisp crust, airy crumb, and subtle flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches and bruschetta. Here’s a streamlined guide to crafting authentic ciabatta bread at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Biga (Preferment):

250 grams (2 cups) all-purpose flour
175 grams (3/4 cup plus 1 tbsp) water at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
For the Dough:

500 grams (4 cups) all-purpose flour
350 grams (1 1/2 cups) water at room temperature
10 grams (2 tsp) salt
All of the prepared biga
Understanding the Ciabatta Dough
Ciabatta dough has high hydration, resulting in an open crumb and moist interior. Handling this sticky dough requires a gentle touch.

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