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Herb Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 127 reviews

This rustic oven bread recipe combines simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, garlic, and fresh herbs to create a flavorful, crusty loaf. Using a Dutch oven and a long resting period, the bread develops a perfect texture with a golden, crispy crust and a soft, aromatic interior. Ideal for serving with soups, salads, or as a centerpiece for any meal, this easy-to-make bread is a must-try for home bakers.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water

Flavorings

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients and Flavorings: Pour in the warm water, then add the minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.
  3. First Rise: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. This slow fermentation develops flavor and texture.
  4. Preheat Oven and Dutch Oven: About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven inside while it preheats, so it becomes hot.
  5. Prepare Dutch Oven: Carefully remove the heated Dutch oven from the oven, and pour in the olive oil to coat the bottom, helping to prevent sticking and adding flavor.
  6. Shape Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a smooth ball, folding it over itself to build tension on the surface.
  7. Bake Covered: Place the dough ball into the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes to create steam and help the bread rise and form a crust.
  8. Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the bread turns a deep golden brown.
  9. Cool Before Slicing: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to ensure the crumb sets properly.

Notes

  • Using a Dutch oven traps steam which is critical for crust development.
  • The long, slow rise enhances flavor and texture without the need for kneading.
  • Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • You can substitute herbs based on preference—basil, oregano, or sage work well.
  • The bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be toasted the next day.

Keywords: oven bread, homemade bread, herbed bread, garlic bread, Dutch oven bread, crusty bread, slow rise bread

Find it online: https://deliciousdishspot.com/herb-bread-recipe/