Italian Hero Bread Recipe is the ideal base for hearty sandwiches, offering a soft interior and a crisp crust that holds up well with fillings like deli meats, cheeses, and veggies. This homemade bread has a classic Italian flavor and texture that’s perfect for making traditional hero or sub sandwiches. With a few simple ingredients, you can make a loaf that’s both flavorful and versatile.
Ingredients:
- 500g bread flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 7g active dry yeast
- 300ml warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm water with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour and salt. If you’d like extra flavor, add the dried oregano.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a long loaf, about 10-12 inches. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add Toppings and Bake: Brush the top of the loaf with a bit of water, then sprinkle sesame seeds if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the Italian Hero Bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. It’s now ready to be filled with your favorite sandwich ingredients.
Tips for the Best Result:
- Tip 1: Use bread flour for a chewier texture, ideal for Italian Hero Bread.
- Tip 2: Adding oregano gives the bread a subtle Italian flavor, but it’s optional.
- Tip 3: For a crispier crust, bake with a pan of water on the oven’s bottom rack.
Serving Suggestions:
This Italian Hero Bread is perfect for making sub-style sandwiches. Layer with Italian meats, cheeses, lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil for an authentic hero sandwich experience.
Conclusion:
Italian Hero Bread is a versatile and flavorful bread that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. This homemade loaf is easy to make and perfect for building delicious sandwiches with robust fillings. Enjoy it fresh or lightly toasted for the ultimate sandwich base!
Let me know if you need any more adjustments!
