Bread Machine Italian Breadsticks Food Meanderings from foodmeanderings.com
Introduction
Breadsticks are a great addition to any meal, and they're easy to make at home! This recipe will guide you through the steps to make delicious, crispy breadsticks that are perfect for dipping or as a side dish.
Ingredients
To make breadsticks, you'll need the following ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups warm water
1/4 cup olive oil
Garlic powder (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well. Add the warm water and olive oil, and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks
Punch down the dough and divide it into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin rope, about 12 inches long. Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Add Seasonings
If you want to add seasonings to your breadsticks, sprinkle them on top now. You can use garlic powder, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, or any other spices you like.
Step 6: Bake the Breadsticks
Bake the breadsticks for 15-20 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving.
Nutrition
Here's the approximate nutrition information for one breadstick:
Calories: 120
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 3g
Sodium: 150mg
Variations
If you want to switch up the flavor of your breadsticks, try adding different seasonings or toppings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat.
Add chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to the dough for a savory flavor.
Top the breadsticks with shredded mozzarella cheese and sliced pepperoni for a pizza-inspired snack.
Brush the breadsticks with garlic butter and sprinkle them with chopped parsley for a classic garlic bread flavor.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the best breadsticks:
Be sure to use warm water when making the dough, as it will help activate the yeast and help the dough rise.
If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it's too dry, add a bit more water.
Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the breadsticks. This will ensure that they cook evenly.
If you want your breadsticks to be extra crispy, brush them with olive oil before baking.
If you don't have parchment paper, you can grease the baking sheet with cooking spray or oil.
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Making breadsticks at home is easy and fun, and they're a great addition to any meal. With this recipe, you can create delicious, crispy breadsticks that are perfect for dipping or as a side dish. Try adding different seasonings and toppings to switch up the flavor and make them your own. Enjoy!
