Are you a fan of Carrabba's Italian Grill? Do you dream of that warm, crusty bread served with their signature olive oil dipping sauce? Well, dream no more! This recipe will guide you through making a delicious copycat version of Carrabba's famous bread, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s easier than you think, and the result is a truly delightful homemade treat, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is one of those easy recipes that delivers big on flavor, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Olive oil for drizzling (plus extra for serving)
- Balsamic Glaze (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, until the yeast is foamy. This is a crucial step to ensure your bread rises properly.
Mixing the Dough:
- Stir in the olive oil, then gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Kneading the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
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 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) is a great place for this!
Shaping and Second Rise:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf or a long oval, depending on your preference. Place the shaped dough in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Baking the Bread:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the bread with olive oil.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cooling and Serving:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm with olive oil for dipping and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if desired.
Tips for the Best Carrabba's Copycat Bread:
- Yeast Activation: Make sure your yeast is fresh and the water is the correct temperature. Too hot and you'll kill the yeast; too cold and it won't activate properly.
- Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a chewier, more flavorful bread. Don't skip this step!
- Rising Time: Rising times may vary depending on the temperature and humidity of your environment. The dough should visibly increase in size.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bread while it's baking to prevent burning. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it's done.
Variations:
- Herbs: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs, such as rosemary, oregano, or thyme, to the dough for extra flavor.
- Garlic: Incorporate 1-2 cloves of minced garlic into the dough for a garlicky twist.
- Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the bread before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and ingredients used, but a general estimate per slice is:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 4-6g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g
Enjoy your homemade Carrabba's-style bread! It's a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal, making it a perfect choice for those seeking delicious dishes and best recipes for their homemade cooking. This easy recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.