Ciabatta

Ciabatta (pronounced chuh-BAH-tuh) is a type of Italian white bread, known for its rustic appearance, airy, open crumb structure, and chewy crust. It's characterized by a high hydration level (amount of water relative to flour), which contributes to its irregular shape and large air pockets. The name "ciabatta" translates to "slipper" in Italian, reflecting its elongated, flattened form. The bread is typically made with wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast, and often undergoes a long fermentation process to develop its characteristic flavor and texture. Variations exist, including the addition of olive oil or herbs. Its versatility makes it suitable for sandwiches, bruschetta, and as a complement to soups and stews.

Ciabatta meaning with examples

• The aroma of freshly baked ciabatta filled the bakery, beckoning customers with its warm, inviting fragrance. He sliced the ciabatta lengthwise and generously layered it with prosciutto, mozzarella, and fresh basil, creating a classic Italian sandwich. The bread’s porous interior readily soaked up the olive oil in her dipping sauce, enhancing its flavor and creating a truly enjoyable culinary experience.
• She preferred ciabatta for making paninis, as the crispy crust held up well under the panini press and the inside remained soft. The gourmet sandwich shop featured a daily special of grilled chicken with roasted red peppers on a toasted ciabatta roll. Even after toasting, the ciabatta retained its chewy texture, contrasting beautifully with the fillings.
• The restaurant offered warm, crusty ciabatta slices as a complimentary starter alongside a vibrant olive oil and balsamic vinegar dipping sauce. He meticulously prepared a batch of homemade bruschetta, using toasted ciabatta as the base for the tomato and basil topping. The high water content in ciabatta ensured a light and airy texture.
• The baker carefully shaped the ciabatta loaves, utilizing his experience to maintain their signature slipper-like form. She selected ciabatta from the bakery for her dinner party, knowing that it would pair perfectly with the roasted vegetable antipasto. The large air pockets throughout the bread are a sign of its quality.
• The recipe for ciabatta bread requires a significant amount of time, as it includes long fermentation and folding to generate the classic flavor. The chef used ciabatta to construct a hearty sandwich, filling it with slow-cooked pulled pork and coleslaw. ciabatta bread has been known for its crunchy exterior, making it a staple in the world of baking.