Ingredients:
- 4 cups of bread flour
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1 ¾ cups of warm water
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 ½ cups of diced salami or pepperoni
- 1 ½ cups of diced provolone cheese
- 1 cup of pitted black olives
- 1 cup of roasted red peppers, diced
- 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, and salt. Slowly add warm water and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine the diced salami (or pepperoni), provolone cheese, black olives, roasted red peppers, and olive oil. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Shape the Tortano
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a rectangle that is about ¼ inch thick. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch border on all sides. Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
Step 4: Form the Bread
To create the traditional Tortano shape, take one of the rolled dough logs and form it into a ring. Pinch and seal the ends together. Repeat with the second dough log. Place both rings onto a greased baking sheet and cover them with a kitchen towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Tortanos for about 30-35 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Slice the Tortano and serve it warm.
Now that you have mastered the art of making a traditional Italian Tortano, you can delight your taste buds with this flavorful bread whenever you desire. Whether it’s a special occasion or a regular day, this bread will surely impress everyone who gets a taste. Enjoy!