Intro:
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. This Italian Herb Bread recipe will not only fill your kitchen with wonderful smells but also delight your taste buds. The perfect combination of flavorful herbs and a soft, chewy texture makes this bread a standout choice for any meal or snack.
Italian Herb Bread
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt
– 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon dried basil
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Gradually add warm water and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
3. Slowly add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue mixing until the dough comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead in the dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until evenly distributed.
8. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
9. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife, making 3-4 shallow cuts diagonally.
10. Bake the Italian Herb Bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
This Italian Herb Bread is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of olive oil or use it to make delicious sandwiches and bruschetta. You can also pair it with a hearty soup or salad for a satisfying meal. The aroma of herbs and freshly baked bread will fill your home with warmth and comfort. Give this recipe a try to impress your family and friends with your baking skills!