Italian Stromboli

Introduction

Looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this classic Italian Stromboli recipe! Originating from the Italian-American communities, Stromboli is a mouthwatering baked turnover filled with a variety of delicious ingredients like cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables. This versatile dish is perfect for dinner, parties, or even a weekend treat. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making the perfect Italian Stromboli at home.

Ingredients

To make a traditional Italian Stromboli, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces thinly sliced Italian salami
• 8 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni
• 8 ounces thinly sliced ham
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

For the Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Assemble the Stromboli

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
3. Layer the Fillings: Begin layering the salami, pepperoni, and ham evenly over the dough, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheese on top of the meats. Add Italian seasoning and garlic powder for extra flavor.
4. Roll the Stromboli: Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough into a log, tucking in the ends as you go. Pinch the seams to seal the Stromboli and place it seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake the Stromboli

1. Add the Topping: Brush the top of the Stromboli with the beaten egg. For added flavor and texture, sprinkle sesame seeds or grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
2. Bake: Place the Stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
3. Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Serve

• Serving Suggestions: Serve your Italian Stromboli warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Success

• Dough Variation: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough instead of making your own.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the filling by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also swap out the meats for other Italian cold cuts like prosciutto or capicola.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the Stromboli ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Conclusion

This Italian Stromboli recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and savory filling, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a party, this Stromboli will be a hit. Try it out and enjoy the delicious flavors of Italy right in your kitchen!

Serving and Storage Tips for Italian Stromboli

Serving Tips

1. Slice and Serve Immediately: Italian Stromboli is best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into 1-2 inch thick pieces. This will help the cheese set slightly and make slicing easier.
2. Accompaniments: Serve the Stromboli with a side of marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. A fresh green salad, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables make great side dishes to complement the richness of the Stromboli.
3. Party Platter: If you’re serving Stromboli at a party, arrange the slices on a large platter and provide small bowls of dipping sauces like marinara, garlic butter, or even a spicy aioli.
4. Pair with Beverages: A cold beer, a glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese, or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can enhance the dining experience.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigerating Leftovers: If you have leftovers, wrap the Stromboli slices tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat, place the Stromboli slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the crust. You can also reheat slices in a microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the crust may not be as crispy.
3. Freezing: Stromboli can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap the whole Stromboli or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Stromboli can be frozen for up to 2 months.
4. Thawing and Reheating from Frozen: To thaw, transfer the Stromboli to the refrigerator the night before you plan to eat it. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, avoid microwaving frozen Stromboli, as it can result in a soggy crust.
5. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the Stromboli ahead of time and freeze it unbaked. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the recipe instructions.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Italian Stromboli remains delicious, whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or as a tasty leftover meal!

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making my own?

• Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought pizza dough to save time. Just make sure to let the dough come to room temperature before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and help achieve a better crust.

1. What other fillings can I use in my Stromboli?

• Stromboli is highly versatile, and you can customize it with various fillings. Besides the traditional meats like salami, pepperoni, and ham, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or olives. You can also experiment with different cheeses like fontina, gouda, or cheddar for a unique flavor.

1. How do I prevent my Stromboli from getting soggy?

• To prevent a soggy Stromboli, avoid overloading it with fillings, especially moist ingredients like vegetables. It’s also helpful to pat dry any vegetables before adding them. Baking the Stromboli on parchment paper or a lightly greased baking sheet ensures even cooking and a crispier crust.

1. Can I make Stromboli ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble the Stromboli ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you plan to make it further in advance, consider freezing the assembled Stromboli and baking it straight from the freezer, adjusting the baking time as needed.

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