Ciabatta

Available from The Boulanger Bakery counter at Arkadia Foodstore Portomaso

Ciabatta is a rustic Italian bread known for its distinctive characteristics and versatility in the culinary world. With its elongated, flat shape and rustic crust, it has become a beloved staple in kitchens worldwide.

What sets ciabatta apart is its unique texture. It boasts a chewy, open crumb structure with a crisp crust, achieved through a high-hydration dough and a long fermentation process. This gives it a delightful contrast between a crunchy exterior and a soft, airy interior.

Ciabatta's neutral flavour profile makes it a versatile bread choice. It can be used for sandwiches, bruschetta, paninis, or simply enjoyed dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Its ability to absorb flavours and hold up to a variety of toppings and fillings makes it a go-to choice for many culinary creations.

Whether you're savouring a classic caprese sandwich, a gourmet burger, or a simple slice with butter, ciabatta's delightful texture and understated taste make it an enduring favourite in the world of bread.

Recipe: Chicken Pesto Ciabatta Sandwich

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 large ciabatta loaf, cut into 4 equal sections
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and sliced
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

A wide variety of quality ingredients for our recipes are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.

Method:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side or until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the centre. Optionally, add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for extra flavour. Once cooked, slice the chicken into thin strips.

2. Slice each section of ciabatta lengthwise. Toast the ciabatta slices on the cut side in a toaster or on a grill until they become lightly crispy.

3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce on the bottom half of each ciabatta section. Layer the sliced chicken, fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach on top.

4. Place the top half of the ciabatta on each sandwich to close them. Optionally, warm the sandwiches in the oven or on the grill for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese further.

5. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately. This savoury sandwich combines the rich flavours of pesto, tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella on a rustic ciabatta roll for a delightful meal. Enjoy!

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