Italian Stromboli

Sure, here is a classic Italian Stromboli recipe for you to try!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ to 4 cups bread flour, plus more for rolling
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup thinly sliced pepperoni or salami
• 1 cup thinly sliced ham
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Topping:

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

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
   • Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • While the dough is rising, prepare your filling ingredients. Slice the pepperoni, ham, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Stromboli:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
   • Spread the pizza sauce or marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce.
   • Layer the pepperoni, ham, mushrooms, and bell peppers over the cheese.
   • Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder over the top.
4. Roll and Bake:
   • Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, tucking in the ends as you go.
   • Transfer the rolled Stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
   • Brush the top with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
   • Using a sharp knife, make a few diagonal slashes on the top of the Stromboli to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
6. Serve:
   • Slice the Stromboli into thick pieces and serve warm. Enjoy!

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as different types of cheese, meats, or vegetables.