Submarine sandwiches, also known as subs or hoagies, are a popular food item that can be found in delis, restaurants, and even homemade. The foundation of a great submarine sandwich is the bread, which should be soft, yet crispy, and flavorful. In this article, we will explore the art of making submarine sandwich bread from scratch, including the ingredients, equipment, and techniques required to create the perfect loaf.
Understanding the Basics of Submarine Sandwich Bread
Submarine sandwich bread is a type of Italian bread that is characterized by its long, thin shape and soft texture. It is typically made with yeast, flour, water, salt, and sugar, and is often topped with sesame seeds or poppy seeds. The bread is designed to be easy to slice and fill with a variety of ingredients, such as meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments.
The Importance of Ingredients
The quality of the ingredients used to make submarine sandwich bread is crucial to its success. Here are some key ingredients to focus on:
- High-protein flour: This type of flour is essential for creating a strong gluten structure, which will help the bread to rise and give it a chewy texture.
- Active dry yeast: Yeast is responsible for fermenting the sugars in the dough, producing carbon dioxide gas and causing the bread to rise.
- Salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the bread and helps to control the growth of yeast.
- Sugar: Sugar provides food for the yeast and helps to promote fermentation.
- Water: Water is essential for hydrating the flour and creating a dough.
The Role of Equipment
While it is possible to make submarine sandwich bread by hand, using specialized equipment can make the process easier and more efficient. Here are some key pieces of equipment to consider:
- Stand mixer: A stand mixer can be used to mix and knead the dough, saving time and effort.
- Dough scraper: A dough scraper is a long, flexible blade that is used to scrape the dough off the sides of the mixing bowl and onto a floured surface.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to shape and proof the dough, and to bake the bread.
- Oven: A oven is used to bake the bread, giving it a crispy crust and a soft interior.
The Process of Making Submarine Sandwich Bread
Making submarine sandwich bread is a multi-step process that requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. Here is an overview of the process:
Step 1: Mixing the Dough
To mix the dough, combine the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and water in a large mixing bowl. Mix the ingredients together using a stand mixer or a wooden spoon, until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 2: Kneading the Dough
To knead the dough, turn it out onto a floured surface and use a dough scraper to scrape the dough off the sides of the mixing bowl. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Proofing the Dough
To proof the dough, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shaping the Dough
To shape the dough, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Use a dough scraper to shape the dough into a long, thin rectangle.
Step 5: Proofing the Dough Again
To proof the dough again, place it on a baking sheet, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 30-60 minutes, until it has doubled in size again.
Step 6: Baking the Bread
To bake the bread, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the bread for 20-30 minutes, until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to consider when making submarine sandwich bread:
- Use a preferment: A preferment is a mixture of flour, water, and yeast that is allowed to ferment before being added to the dough. Using a preferment can add complexity and depth to the bread.
- Add flavorings: Flavorings such as herbs, spices, and nuts can be added to the dough to give the bread extra flavor.
- Try different types of flour: Different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rye, can be used to create a different flavor and texture.
- Use a sourdough starter: A sourdough starter is a natural yeast culture that can be used to leaven the bread. Using a sourdough starter can add a tangy, sour flavor to the bread.
In conclusion, making submarine sandwich bread is a rewarding and delicious process that requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic submarine sandwich bread that is perfect for filling with your favorite ingredients.
What is the ideal type of flour for making submarine sandwich bread?
The ideal type of flour for making submarine sandwich bread is bread flour or all-purpose flour with a high protein content. This type of flour will provide the necessary structure and texture to the bread, allowing it to hold its shape and support the various fillings. Bread flour typically has a protein content of 12-14%, which is higher than all-purpose flour.
Using bread flour or high-protein all-purpose flour will also help to create a more tender crumb and a crisper crust, which is essential for a submarine sandwich bread. Additionally, this type of flour will help to create a more even rise, resulting in a more consistent texture throughout the bread.
How do I achieve the perfect balance of yeast and salt in my submarine sandwich bread recipe?
Achieving the perfect balance of yeast and salt in your submarine sandwich bread recipe is crucial for optimal flavor and texture. The general rule of thumb is to use 1-2% salt and 1-2% yeast based on the weight of the flour. This means that if you are using 1000g of flour, you would use 10-20g of salt and 10-20g of yeast.
However, the ideal balance of yeast and salt may vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and personal preference. It’s essential to experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance for your submarine sandwich bread recipe. Additionally, using a high-quality yeast and salt will also impact the flavor and texture of the bread.
What is the best way to shape submarine sandwich bread to achieve the perfect crust?
The best way to shape submarine sandwich bread to achieve the perfect crust is to use a gentle, stretching motion to form the dough into a long, thin cylinder. This will help to create a more even crust and prevent the bread from becoming too dense or heavy.
To shape the dough, start by gently stretching it out into a long, thin rectangle. Then, fold the rectangle in half lengthwise and use your hands to shape it into a cylinder. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet or proofing basket, leaving enough space for it to rise.
How do I prevent my submarine sandwich bread from becoming too dense or heavy?
To prevent your submarine sandwich bread from becoming too dense or heavy, it’s essential to use the right ratio of ingredients and to not overmix the dough. Overmixing can cause the gluten in the flour to develop, leading to a dense and heavy bread.
Additionally, using a preferment such as a biga or poolish can help to create a more open and airy texture. A preferment is a mixture of flour, water, and yeast that is allowed to ferment before being added to the rest of the dough. This will help to break down the starches in the flour and create a more complex flavor.
What is the ideal temperature and humidity for proofing submarine sandwich bread?
The ideal temperature and humidity for proofing submarine sandwich bread is between 75-80°F (24-27°C) and 70-80% relative humidity. This will help to create an optimal environment for the yeast to ferment and the dough to rise.
If the temperature is too high or too low, it can affect the rate of fermentation and the texture of the bread. Additionally, if the humidity is too low, the dough may dry out and not rise properly. To achieve the ideal temperature and humidity, you can use a proofing box or a warm, draft-free place in your kitchen.
How do I achieve a crispy crust on my submarine sandwich bread?
To achieve a crispy crust on your submarine sandwich bread, it’s essential to bake the bread at a high temperature and to use steam. Steam helps to create a crispy crust by gelatinizing the starches on the surface of the bread.
To create steam, you can place a pan of water in the oven while baking the bread. Alternatively, you can use a steam injector or a cloche to create a steamy environment. Additionally, baking the bread at a high temperature, such as 425-450°F (220-230°C), will also help to create a crispy crust.
Can I make submarine sandwich bread ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can make submarine sandwich bread ahead of time and freeze it. In fact, freezing the bread can help to preserve its texture and flavor. To freeze the bread, simply place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to use the bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the oven. Freezing the bread will also help to make it easier to slice and handle, as it will be firmer and less prone to tearing.