Learn how to make homemade Italian bread bowls that are perfect for serving your favorite soup or salad. These bread bowls are crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a delightful addition to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is a must-try for bread lovers.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 cups warm water
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Stir the mixture until it forms a shaggy dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round ball.
- Place the dough balls on a greased baking sheet and cover them with a damp cloth. Let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Bake the bread bowls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread bowls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before cutting the tops off and hollowing out the centers.
- Serve the bread bowls filled with your favorite soup or salad.
Interesting Facts
Bread bowls are believed to have originated in San Francisco, California, where they became popular for serving clam chowder.
You can customize your bread bowls by adding herbs, cheese, or garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
Leftover bread bowls can be sliced and toasted for a delicious breakfast or snack the next day.