Italian Stromboli

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Ingredients for Italian Stromboli

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Italian Stromboli. Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences!

For the Dough:

  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce (optional, for dipping)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8-10 slices of Genoa salami
  • 8-10 slices of pepperoni
  • 6-8 slices of prosciutto or ham (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

For the Egg Wash:

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp water
  • Sesame seeds or grated Parmesan (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This indicates the yeast is activated.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  3. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5 minutes.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. While the dough rises, prepare your filling ingredients. Shred the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and slice the meats if necessary.
  2. Mix oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl for seasoning.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle (approximately 12×14 inches) on a floured surface.

Step 4: Assemble the Stromboli

  1. Spread a thin layer of marinara or pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. (You can skip the sauce if you prefer to serve it as a dip.)
  2. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
  3. Layer the meats evenly over the cheese, ensuring every bite will have a mix of flavors.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses and the prepared seasoning mixture on top.

Step 5: Roll and Seal

  1. Starting from one of the longer edges, roll the dough tightly into a log. Be careful to keep the fillings intact.
  2. Pinch the edges to seal the seams and tuck the ends underneath. Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
  2. Brush the egg wash over the Stromboli to give it a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds or additional Parmesan on top if desired.

Step 7: Bake

  1. Use a sharp knife to cut shallow slits along the top of the Stromboli, allowing steam to escape.
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Stromboli

  1. Don’t Overfill: Too many ingredients can cause the dough to tear or the fillings to spill out. Use a balanced amount for best results.
  2. Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes it easier to transfer the Stromboli to a serving plate.
  3. Customize Fillings: Try variations like spinach and ricotta, roasted vegetables, or even BBQ chicken for unique flavors.
  4. Let It Rest: Allow the Stromboli to cool slightly before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out too much.
  5. Double the Dough: Make extra dough and freeze it for quick Stromboli-making on busy days.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Stromboli pairs beautifully with a side of marinara or garlic butter sauce for dipping. Serve it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also works well as a party appetizer or a quick snack for kids.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content based on a Stromboli sliced into 8 pieces:

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Protein: 13g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Italian Stromboli is a versatile and delightful dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for a fun cooking project, this recipe has you covered. With its crispy crust, savory fillings, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite ingredients to make it your own!

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