This Cheesy Herb and Red Pepper Bread is a delightful savory treat, perfect for any meal or as a standalone snack. The combination of fresh herbs, red peppers, and cheese creates a flavorful and aromatic bread that is sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
- 2 chicken eggs
- 7 g dry yeast
- 350 ml milk
- 300 ml boiling water
- 450 g flour
- 2 raw sweet red peppers, finely chopped
- A bunch of dill, chopped
- A bunch of parsley, chopped
- 150 g hard cheese, grated
- Some vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Sugar to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in 300 ml of boiling water.
- Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and foamy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and sugar.
- Add the milk to the yeast mixture, followed by the egg mixture.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and leave it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Add-ins:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the red peppers, dill, parsley, and cheese.
- Incorporate Add-ins:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and incorporate the red peppers, dill, parsley, and grated cheese. Knead the dough gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Second Rise:
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 20 minutes.
- Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread for about 40 minutes or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a pat of butter.
- Pair with a fresh salad or soup.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the water is not too hot when dissolving the yeast to avoid killing the yeast.
- Knead the dough well to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs: Provide protein and essential nutrients.
- Herbs (Dill and Parsley): Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Red Peppers: High in vitamins A and C, and fiber.
- Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Can be made dairy-free: Substitute hard cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful: The combination of herbs, cheese, and red peppers makes this bread incredibly tasty.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein.
- Versatile: Perfect for any meal or as a snack.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Herb and Red Pepper Bread is a savory, nutritious treat that is easy to prepare and delicious to eat. Perfect for any time of the day, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your baking! Bon appétit!