This Herb and Garlic Bread is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a rich aroma and a burst of flavor in every bite. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic infused into the dough makes this bread a standout on any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it as a side with pasta, soup, or enjoying it on its own, this bread is sure to impress. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, this Herb and Garlic Bread will quickly become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this wonderful bread, fresh from your oven.

Full Recipe:

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

Directions:

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a bowl, mix the lukewarm water, dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
4. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
5. 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).

Prepare the Herb Filling:

1. In a small bowl, combine 5-8 tablespoons of olive oil with the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano. Mix well.

Shape and Assemble the Bread:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F).
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface.
3. Roll out the dough into a rectangle.
4. Spread the herb and garlic mixture evenly over the surface of the dough.
5. Roll the dough into a log and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Cover the dough and let it rest for another 15-20 minutes.

Bake the Bread:

1. Before baking, brush the top of the dough with a little olive oil and sprinkle generously with coarse salt.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Garnish:

1. Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Sprinkle with chili flakes and marjoram.

Serve:

1. Slice the bread and serve warm. Enjoy the aromatic and delicious herb and garlic bread with your favorite meal.

Detailed Information:

Nutritional Benefits:

This herb and garlic bread is not only delicious but also provides essential nutrients. Olive oil adds healthy fats, while garlic offers antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The use of fresh herbs enhances the flavor and adds a touch of freshness to the bread.

Ingredient Tips:

• Herbs: Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used if fresh ones are not available.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide the most robust flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used for convenience.
• Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe, but you can also experiment with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.

Cooking Tips:

• Kneading: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten, resulting in a better texture.
• Rising: Ensure the dough is left in a warm place to rise. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven with just the light on to create a warm environment.
• Baking: Keep an eye on the bread towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning.

Variations:

• Cheesy Herb Bread: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the herb mixture before rolling up the dough.
• Spicy Herb Bread: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the herb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Knots: Instead of rolling the dough into a log, cut it into strips, tie each strip into a knot, and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions:

• Dipping: Serve with a side of marinara sauce or a mix of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
• Sandwiches: Use the herb and garlic bread to make delicious sandwiches or paninis.
• Appetizer: Cut into small pieces and serve as an appetizer with a cheese platter.

Final Thoughts:

This Herb and Garlic Bread is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. The aroma of freshly baked bread combined with the enticing scent of garlic and herbs will fill your kitchen and make everyone eager for a slice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Enjoy the rich, savory taste and the satisfaction of making your own bread at home. Bon appétit!