Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and aromatic bread recipe to try at home? Look no further! Our herb bread recipe is the perfect choice for bread lovers who crave a flavorful and savory treat. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this delightful bread from scratch.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1 cup of lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
For the herb topping:
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1 tablespoon of dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare the herb bread:
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Shaping and Baking
Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the second rise.
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, dried parsley, garlic powder, and salt to prepare the herb topping.
Once the dough has finished its second rise, brush the herb topping generously over the surface of the loaf.
Bake the herb bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. Keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different, so adjust the quantities according to your taste.
2. Can I substitute olive oil with another type of oil?
Absolutely! You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, canola oil, or any other oil of your choice. However, olive oil adds a distinct flavor to the bread, so consider this when making the substitution.
3. How can I store the herb bread?
To keep the herb bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
4. Can I freeze the herb bread?
Yes, you can freeze the herb bread. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
5. Can I add other ingredients to the herb bread?
Absolutely! The herb bread recipe serves as a great base for experimentation. You can add ingredients like grated cheese, chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even minced garlic to enhance the flavor and texture of the bread.