Easy No Knead Ciabatta Bread

Name: Easy No Knead Ciabatta Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 520 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 1/2 cup water (lukewarm); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast

520 min 8 slices Easy

All Recipes

Discover how to make a delicious, airy no knead ciabatta bread with minimal effort. Perfect for sandwiches or as a side!

Prep

15 min

Cook

25 min

Total

520 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Ciabatta, known for its distinctive open crumb and crispy crust, is a beloved Italian bread that's perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed with olive oil. This no knead version simplifies the traditional method by eliminating the need for laborious kneading, making it accessible to even the most novice bakers. The magic of this recipe lies in the slow fermentation, which develops flavour and texture with minimal hands-on time. Whether you're looking for a delicious bread to complement your favourite pasta or simply want to enjoy a warm slice with butter, this no knead ciabatta is sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, and salt. Add water and stir until a sticky dough forms.

Pro tip: Ensure all the flour is fully hydrated.

First rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature for 8-12 hours.

Pro tip: The dough should double in size and be bubbly.

Shape the dough

Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Gently shape into a rectangle without deflating.

Pro tip: Use a dough scraper to handle the sticky dough.

Second rise

Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for 2 hours.

Pro tip: The dough should puff up slightly.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) during the last 30 minutes of the second rise.

Bake the bread

Bake the ciabatta for 25 minutes or until the crust is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.

Pro tip: Rotate halfway through for even baking.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a digital scale for precise measurements.
Ensure your water is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly.
Use a dough scraper to handle the sticky dough easily.
Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes ciabatta bread unique?

Ciabatta is known for its open crumb and crispy crust, ideal for sandwiches and soaking up sauces.

How many calories are in a slice of ciabatta bread?

A slice of this ciabatta bread contains approximately 150 calories.

How long does no knead ciabatta bread take to rise?

The first rise takes 8-12 hours, and the second rise takes about 2 hours.

Can I make ciabatta dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator.

What's the best way to store leftover ciabatta bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this ciabatta as a delightful accompaniment to soups or stews, or use it as a base for bruschetta and paninis. Its airy texture is perfect for soaking up sauces. To make ahead, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition per serving

150

Calories

Protein

Fat

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