Homemade Italian Ciabatta Bread

Step 1

In a small bowl 1/4 cup of water, honey and yeast, let sit 5 minutes then stir.

Step 2

In a large bowl add the flour , make a well in the centre and add the yeast mixture and remaining water. Mix together with a wood spoon, when almost mixed add the salt and combine. The dough will be loose and sticky. Sprinkle the top with 1 1/2 tablespoons of flour.

Step 3

Cover the bowl with a large tea towel, place in a warm, draft free area and let rise for 1 1/2 hours.

Step 4

Pre-heat oven to 425F (220C), line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle with 1 1/2 tablespoons of flour.

Step 5

Carefully move the dough from the bowl to the prepared cookie sheet, making sure that the floured top of the dough remains on the top.

Step 6

With a spatula form the dough into an oblong loaf, place 5 or 6 ice cubes on a pan on the bottom of the oven to create vapor or add the pan when pre-heating the oven and pour 1 cup of very hot water into the pan before adding the dough.  Bake for approximately 20 - 25 minutes. Let cool and serve. Enjoy!