Ingredients:
- 4 cups of bread flour
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 cups of lukewarm water
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in ½ cup of warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to leaven your dough.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the remaining water while mixing the ingredients together with a wooden spoon or your hands. Continue to mix until a rough dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and start kneading. Push the dough away from you using the palms of your hands, then fold it back in half. Rotate the dough and repeat this motion for about 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm area for approximately 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for the development of gluten and to achieve a light and airy texture in your bread.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Gently deflate the risen dough by pressing your fist into its center. Transfer it back to the floured surface and shape it into your desired loaf shape – whether it’s a round boule or a traditional loaf shape. Place it onto a baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
Step 6: Final Proofing
Cover the shaped dough with a kitchen towel and let it proof for another hour or until it visibly rises again. This final rising period allows the yeast to continue creating air pockets, contributing to a light and fluffy texture in your finished bread.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If desired, you can slash the surface of the dough with a sharp knife to create decorative patterns. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This step allows the moisture to distribute evenly and ensures a softer crust. Serve your freshly baked Gomma Pane and enjoy it with your favorite toppings or spreads!
Learning how to make bread dough opens up a world of culinary possibilities. With this step-by-step guide, you can now create your own homemade Gomma Pane – a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. So go ahead and start baking your way to bread-making mastery!