Coppia Ferrarese - Italian Twisted Bread

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 30g (2 tbsp) olive oil 30g (2 tbsp) olive oil
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.
2. 2.
   Make a well in the center and pour in the olive oil and warm water.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a rough dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles, then divide it into two equal portions.
7. 7.
   Take one portion and roll it into a long rope, about 60cm (24 inches) in length.
8. 8.
   Twist the rope into a loose spiral, then twist the ends together to form a twisted bread shape.
9. 9.
   Repeat the process with the second portion of dough.
10. 10.
    Place the twisted breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
11. 11.
    Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
12. 12.
    Bake the Coppia Ferrarese for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Olive oil — Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Active dry yeast — Make sure the yeast is fresh and active by proofing it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, brush the Coppia Ferrarese with olive oil and sprinkle some sea salt before baking.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or dried herbs to add extra flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve the bread warm for the best taste and texture.
• Leftover Coppia Ferrarese can be toasted and enjoyed with butter or used as a base for bruschetta.
• If you prefer a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of honey to the dough.

Serving advice

Coppia Ferrarese is best served warm, either on its own or accompanied by a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It pairs well with a variety of Italian dishes, such as pasta, soups, and antipasti.

Presentation advice

To showcase the beautiful twisted shape of the Coppia Ferrarese, place it on a wooden cutting board or a rustic bread basket. Dust the bread with a sprinkle of flour for an artisanal touch.