Rosemary Artisan Bread

Introduction

Rosemary artisan bread is a delightful and aromatic loaf that brings together the rustic charm of homemade bread with the fresh, piney flavor of rosemary. This bread is perfect for serving alongside soups, stews, or simply enjoying with a spread of butter. Its crusty exterior and soft, chewy interior make it a favorite for bread lovers.

Ingredients

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra for topping)
1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Add the chopped rosemary and olive oil.
- Mix until the dough comes together, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Bread:
- Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf.
- Place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a floured proofing basket. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a baking stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
Bake the Bread:
- If desired, brush the loaf with a little olive oil and sprinkle with additional chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt.
- Make a few shallow slashes on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Perfect Rosemary Artisan Bread

Fresh Rosemary: Use fresh rosemary for the best flavor. You can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage.
Steam: For a crustier loaf, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
Proofing: Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free place to achieve the best results.

Conclusion

Rosemary artisan bread is a flavorful and versatile loaf that brings the essence of homemade bread to your table. With its aromatic rosemary notes and perfect texture, this bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious bread with your family and friends!