This Herb and Garlic Bread is a delightful and aromatic bread, perfect for serving with meals or enjoying on its own. Infused with fresh garlic and a mix of herbs, this bread is easy to make and will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 300 ml lukewarm water (about 1 1/4 cups)
- 2 tsp dry yeast (about 7 g or 1/4 oz)
- 1 tbsp sugar (about 12 g or 1/2 oz)
- 425 g all-purpose flour (about 3 1/3 cups)
- 1 tsp salt (about 6 g or 1/5 oz)
- 60 ml olive oil (about 1/4 cup)
For the Herb Filling:
- 5-8 tbsp olive oil (about 75-120 ml or 1/3-1/2 cup)
- 5-6 garlic cloves (about 25-30 g or 1 oz), minced
- Fresh or dried rosemary (to taste)
- Fresh or dried thyme (to taste)
- Fresh or dried basil (to taste)
- Fresh or dried oregano (to taste)
- Coarse salt (for sprinkling)
- Chili flakes (to taste)
- Marjoram (to taste)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, mix the lukewarm water, dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm place until it has doubled in size (about 1 hour).
2. Prepare the Herb Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine 5-8 tablespoons of olive oil with the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano. Mix well.
3. Shape and Assemble the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle.
- Spread the herb and garlic mixture evenly over the surface of the dough.
- Roll the dough into a log and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for another 15-20 minutes.
4. Bake the Bread:
- Before baking, brush the top of the dough with a little olive oil and sprinkle generously with coarse salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
5. Garnish:
- Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Sprinkle with chili flakes and marjoram.
6. Serve:
- Slice the bread and serve warm. Enjoy the aromatic and delicious herb and garlic bread with your favorite meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad and a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the water is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly.
- Adjust the amount of herbs to your taste preference.
- Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Garlic: Rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Herbs: Provide a range of vitamins and minerals.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats and antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made vegan by using a vegan cream cheese substitute.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven before serving to restore freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Aromatic: The combination of garlic and herbs fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- Flavorful: Rich in taste with a perfect blend of herbs and garlic.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Conclusion:
This Herb and Garlic Bread is perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious and aromatic addition to your meal. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful bread! 😊