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Introduction:
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Herb bread is a flavorful and aromatic treat that brings together the freshness of herbs and the comfort of homemade bread. Whether you’re looking for a perfect side for soups or a snack to enjoy with olive oil, this bread is versatile and easy to make. It combines fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and basil, infusing every bite with a burst of garden-fresh taste.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dry active yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons mixed fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, or basil)
- Optional: ½ cup grated parmesan cheese or cheddar for extra flavor
- 1-2 cloves minced garlic (optional, for garlic lovers)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt. If you’re adding cheese or garlic, stir those in as well.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the flour mixture to the yeast, stirring with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer with a dough hook. Add olive oil and knead the dough until smooth (about 5 minutes if kneading by hand).
- Add Herbs: Once the dough starts coming together, fold in the fresh herbs. Continue kneading until the herbs are evenly distributed.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf or rustic form, depending on your preference.
- Second Rise: Let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion:
This herb bread is the perfect combination of soft, aromatic, and slightly crispy, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. Serve it with olive oil for dipping, alongside soups, or simply enjoy it toasted with butter. The addition of herbs adds a delightful fresh twist to traditional bread, making it both a crowd-pleaser and a homemade staple.
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