Ciabatta!

Instructions

1. 1

   For the sponge, heat the water to a warm 110 degrees.

2. 2

   Add yeast to it and let stand for 10 minutes or until frothy.

3. 3

   Add bread flour and make a soft sticky dough. Keep this dough covered at room temperature for 12-15 hours.

4. 4

   For the bread, Warm the milk and add yeast to it.

5. 5

   Let stand for 10 minutes or until frothy.

6. 6

   Add the sponge, bread flour, salt and water and use a hand mixer to mix everything.

7. 7

   Let this dough rise in a warm oven for about an hour. (keep a damp towel over the dough)

8. 8

   Dough will be sticky and full of air bubbles. Turn dough out onto a well-floured work surface and cut in half.

9. 9

   Transfer each half to a parchment sheet and form into an irregular oval about 9 inches long. Dimple loaves with floured fingers and dust tops with flour.

10. 10

    Cover loaves with a damp kitchen towel. Let loaves rise at room temperature until almost doubled in bulk, 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

11. 11

    Bake at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes or until golden.

12. 12

    In the first 10 minutes, spray water over the bread every 3 minutes, for a softer crust.

13. 13

    Cool on rack

14. 14

    Enjoy with soups and sandwiches!