Spanish Pan de Cristal
Breads
Web Recipe

Spanish Pan de Cristal

Kevin R. Fuller

Ingredients

  • 4 cups bread flour
  • 1½ cups warm water (around 110°F)
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast, let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the bread flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Pour in the olive oil and mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
  6. Punch down and divide into two equal portions.
  7. Roll each portion into a very thin rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
  8. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 475°F - a hot oven is key for that crisp crust.
  10. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and blistered.
  11. Remove and let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes.

Notes

A shatteringly crisp crust gives way to a soft, airy interior that's ideal for soaking up olive oil or serving with tapas. Try it warm with a sprinkle of sea salt.