Description
Crusty and fragrant rosemary garlic bread, perfect as a savory side to accompany soups, pastas, or holiday meals. This artisan loaf combines fresh rosemary and garlic for a deeply aromatic and flavorful bread that complements a wide variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients and Flavoring
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a medium bowl, combine the packet of yeast, warm water, and olive oil. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: Add the flour, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until ingredients start to come together, then transfer to a floured surface and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape Loaf: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Prepare for Baking: Optionally, brush the surface of the loaf with olive oil and sprinkle with additional herbs to enhance flavor and crust texture.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let it cool before slicing to ensure the bread sets properly and slices cleanly.
Notes
- Brushing the loaf with olive oil and additional herbs before baking enhances the crust’s flavor and aroma.
- The dough can also be shaped into individual rolls instead of a loaf for easier sharing and portion control.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
