How to Bake Scali Bread: A Comprehensive Guide

Baking bread is an ancient art that has been enjoyed for millennia. One such variety that many bread enthusiasts have fallen in love with is Scali bread. This type of bread boasts a robust flavor and a delightful crust that is often compared to that of sourdough. This guide will walk you through the process of making Scali bread from scratch, including the creation of the starter, kneading the dough, and baking the final loaf. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

For the Starter

1 cup (120g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour 1/3 to 1/2 cup (74g to 113g) cool water, enough to make a stiff ball of dough pinch of instant yeast

For the Dough

All of the starter 2 cups (241g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour 1 1/4 teaspoons (8g) salt

Topping Ingredients

2 tablespoons (14g) Bakers Special Dry Milk or nonfat dry milk 2 teaspoons instant yeast 2/3 cup (149g) lukewarm water 2 tablespoons (25g) olive oil 1 large egg white, beaten with 1 tablespoon cold water 1/2 cup (64g) sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Making the Starter

The first step in making Scali bread is to create the starter. This is a crucial component that contributes to the unique flavor of your bread. Mix the flour and water together and add a pinch of instant yeast. Cover the mixture and let it rest at room temperature overnight. It is important to note that this is a dry, stiff starter, and if it seems too dry, you may need to add a little more water to achieve the right consistency.

Step 2: Making the Dough

Once your starter is ready, it’s time to make the dough. Combine the starter with the remaining dough ingredients and mix until a soft, smooth dough forms. You can use a hand mixer or a bread machine set to the dough cycle. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl or large 8-cup measures and cover it. Let it rise for about 90 minutes, or until it has almost doubled in size.

Step 3: Dividing and Shaping the Dough

After the dough has risen, gently deflate it and divide it into three equal pieces. Shape each piece into a rough log. Let these logs rest uncovered for about 10 minutes to help the gluten relax, making them easier to handle for shaping.

Step 4: Topping the Loaves

Before baking, you can enhance the appearance of your Scali bread by topping it with an egg wash and sesame seeds. Beat an egg white and mix it with a tablespoon of cold water to create the egg wash. Apply this to the surface of the loaves, and sprinkle 1/2 cup of sesame seeds over the top for a crunchy, nutty flavor.

Step 5: Baking the Loaves

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place the loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaves are fully cooked. You can test for doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.

Tips and Variations

To get the best results, make sure your water is lukewarm, as overly hot water can damage the yeast, and cold water can slow down the process. Additionally, using bread flour can give your Scali bread a slight chewiness that some bakers prefer.

Experiment with different toppings and add-ins to suit your taste preferences. Try using different types of seeds like poppy or caraway, or add a sprinkle of salt for a savory flavor. Enjoy the process of baking your very own Scali bread, and savor the delicious results!

Conclusion

Baking Scali bread can be a rewarding experience that lets you create a unique and flavorful loaf. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to make delicious, artisanal bread that you can be proud of. Happy baking!