Are you a fan of Jimmy John's delicious, crunchy bread? That signature taste and texture elevates their sandwiches to another level, right? Well, guess what? You don't need to order takeout to enjoy it! This recipe lets you recreate that fantastic bread at home. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and delivers a quick dinner, or a delicious addition to any meal. Let's get started on this journey into homemade, healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Cornmeal, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, leading to a light and airy bread.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it's too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time. This kneading process develops the gluten, which is key to that satisfying chewiness.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) works great for this.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough in half. Shape each half into a rough rectangle, about 10x6 inches. Place the shaped loaves onto a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal (this prevents sticking and adds a nice texture). Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the loaves for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a thermometer to ensure they're fully baked.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the crust to crisp up and the inside to become perfectly soft.
Tips for the Best Jimmy John's Bread:
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements – this will lead to more consistent results.
- Don’t over-knead the dough, or it can become tough.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for best results.
- For a crispier crust, brush the loaves with a little water before baking.
Variations:
- Add herbs and spices to the dough for extra flavor, such as rosemary, oregano, or garlic powder.
- Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different types of oil, such as olive oil or canola oil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. Always check your ingredient labels for accurate information.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Enjoy your freshly baked Jimmy John's-style bread! It's perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or simply enjoying on its own. This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes that are achievable with easy recipes and homemade cooking. It's a simple but satisfying way to add a homemade touch to your meals.