Grandpa's Bread

The “Grandpa’s Bread” are rustic and tasty rolls originating from Italian culinary tradition. Here’s how to make them.

Ingredients

• 500 g of 00 flour
• 300 ml of lukewarm water
• 20 g of fresh brewer’s yeast
• 10 g of sugar
• 10 g of salt
• 40 g of lard or extra virgin olive oil
• Durum wheat semolina flour (for working)

Preparation

1. Dissolve the brewer’s yeast in the lukewarm water with the sugar and let it rest for a few minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a large bowl, pour the 00 flour and make a well in the center where you will add the dissolved yeast.
3. Start kneading, gradually adding the rest of the water and the oil or lard.
4. When the dough starts to take shape, add the salt and continue working until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous dough.
5. Let the dough rise in a warm place, covered with a damp cloth, for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in volume.
6. After the rising time, deflate the dough and divide it into balls of about 80-100 g each.
7. Shape the rolls into rounds or elongated shapes, as you prefer, and roll them in durum wheat semolina.
8. Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, cover with a cloth and let them rest for another 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 200 °C and, when the rolls are well risen, bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Trivia

The “Grandpa’s Bread” has peasant origins and is characterized by its crispy crust and soft interior, ideal for dipping in sauces or filling with cured meats and cheeses. The durum wheat semolina on the outer surface gives that rustic and flavorful touch typical of this homemade bread.