Ciabatta: An Italian Classic
Ciabatta, meaning "slipper" in Italian, is a rustic Italian bread that originated in the Veneto region in the 1980s. It is characterized by its large, oblong shape resembling a slipper, with a distinctive open crumb and a crisp, golden crust. Ciabatta's unique texture is attributed to its high hydration level, resulting in a light and airy interior with large, irregular holes.
History and Origins
The creation of ciabatta is often credited to Arnaldo Cavallari, a baker from Verona, Italy. In the 1980s, Cavallari was seeking to create a bread that could withstand long fermentation times and produce a soft and flavorful loaf. He experimented with different ingredients and techniques, eventually developing a dough with a high water content and a poolish pre-ferment. The resulting bread, named "ciabatta," quickly gained popularity for its exceptional taste and texture.
Nutritional Value and Uses
Ciabatta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy and fiber. It contains moderate amounts of protein and fat. The open crumb and crispy crust make ciabatta an ideal bread for sandwiches, bruschetta, and paninis. It also complements soups, stews, and salads.
- Calories: 218 per roll
- Protein: 7.3 grams per roll
- Fat: 2.7 grams per roll
- Carbohydrates: 41 grams per roll
- Fiber: 2.2 grams per roll
- Sugar: 4.6 grams per roll
Culinary Versatility
Ciabatta's versatility extends beyond its use in sandwiches and appetizers. It can be sliced and toasted for use as croutons in salads. Its airy texture and ability to absorb flavors make it an excellent choice for bread pudding and stuffing. Ciabatta can also be used as a base for pizza, providing a crispy and flavorful foundation for toppings.
Choosing and Storing Ciabatta
When selecting ciabatta, look for loaves with a golden-brown crust and a light, airy interior. The holes in the crumb should be large and irregular. Fresh ciabatta should have a slightly sour aroma.
To store ciabatta, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a bread box. It can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
How many calories are in Ciabatta Bun?
Each 1 roll of Ciabatta Bun contains 218 calories.
Ciabatta Bun Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 roll (82g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 218 Calories |
| Protein | 7.3g |
| Fat | 2.7g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2g |
| Sugar | 4.6g |
| Sodium | 0.402mg |
| Potassium | 0.1033mg |
| Calcium | 0.118mg |
| Iron | 0.003mg |