Ingredients with Measurements:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley), finely chopped
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional)
- Bread loaf pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and chopped herbs. Mix well.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased bread loaf pan.
7. Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour
- Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
- 1 loaf of bread, sliced into 12-16 pieces
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 170 per slice
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs, but reduce the amount to 1-2 tablespoons.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.
Variations:
- Add grated cheese to the dough for a cheesy herb bread.
- Add chopped garlic to the dough for a garlic herb bread.
- Add chopped nuts or seeds to the dough for a nutty herb bread.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a sharp knife or razor blade to score the top of the bread before baking. This will help it rise evenly and give it a beautiful crust.
- Brush the top of the bread with olive oil or melted butter before baking for a shiny finish.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing it. This will prevent it from becoming gummy.
Storage instructions:
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the bread, wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it is heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the bread on a wooden cutting board with a serrated knife for slicing.
- Place the bread in a bread basket lined with a cloth napkin.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped herbs or grated cheese on top of the bread before baking.
- Serve the bread with a side of herb-infused olive oil for dipping.
Pairings:
- Serve the bread with a bowl of soup or salad for a complete meal.
- Pair the bread with a glass of red wine or a cup of tea.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.
- Grilled chicken or fish.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add more warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- If the bread is not rising, make sure the yeast is fresh and the water is warm but not too hot.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling the dough.
- Use a food thermometer to make sure the bread reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) before removing it from the oven.
Food history:
- Bread has been a staple food for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece.
- Herbs have been used in bread-making for centuries, both for flavor and for their medicinal properties.
Flavor profiles:
- This herb bread has a savory and slightly earthy flavor, with notes of rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the bread warm or at room temperature, sliced thick or thin, with or without butter.
- Use the bread to make sandwiches or toast.
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