What You’ll Need
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons of instant yeast
- 1 ¼ cups of warm water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to be used.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate the flour into the liquid, mixing well until a sticky dough forms. Add the olive oil and continue kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. This allows the yeast to do its magic and create air pockets, which gives the bread its soft texture.
Step 4: Shape the Bread
Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a round or oval shape, tucking the edges underneath to create tension on the surface of the bread.
Step 5: Final Rise
Place the shaped loaves onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Cover the loaves with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 6: Preheat and Score
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Using a sharp knife or a bread scorer, make a few shallow slashes on the surface of each loaf. This step helps the bread expand properly in the oven.
Step 7: Bake and Enjoy
Place the baking sheet with the loaves into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Now that you know how to make authentic Calabrese pitta, you can enjoy the taste of Italy from your own kitchen. With its fluffy texture and delightful flavor, this bread is sure to become a favorite. So, why not give it a try and impress your loved ones with a homemade taste of Calabria?