Description
Rosemary Garlic Artisan Bread
Perfect for pairing with a glass of wine, this bread is crusty, aromatic, and loaded with earthy rosemary flavor.
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp instant yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp rosemary (fresh or dried)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
Instructions:
Mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add water and olive oil to form a dough.
Knead for 5-7 minutes, then mix in rosemary and garlic.
Allow to rise for 1 hour. Shape and proof for 20 minutes.
Bake at 425°F (220°C) in a cast iron skillet for 30 minutes.
Wine and bread—a perfect match! What wine would you pair this with?
#WineAndBread
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tbsp sugar, and 2 tsp instant yeast until thoroughly combined.
2. Form the Dough: Create a well in the center of the dry mix. Pour in 1 1/4 cups of warm water and 2 tbsp olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms and no dry flour remains.
3. Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.
4. Incorporate Flavors: Flatten the dough and sprinkle the 1 tbsp rosemary and 2 minced garlic cloves over it. Fold and knead for another 1-2 minutes until the herbs and garlic are evenly distributed.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape & Second Proof: Gently punch down the dough. Shape it into a round boule. Place it on a piece of parchment paper, cover, and let proof for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, place your cast iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C).
7. Bake: Carefully remove the hot skillet. Transfer the dough (with the parchment) into the skillet. Bake for 30 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This aromatic bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It makes exceptional sandwiches, especially with roasted meats and aioli. For a simple appetizer, top slices with goat cheese and a drizzle of honey. As mentioned, it’s perfect with a glass of wine—try a medium-bodied red like a Syrah or a crisp, herbal Sauvignon Blanc.
How-to Summary
Mix dry ingredients, add wet to form a dough, and knead. Incorporate rosemary and garlic. Let the dough rise for 1 hour, shape it, and proof for 20 minutes. Bake in a preheated cast iron skillet at 425°F for 30 minutes until crusty and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant? Yes. Activate it in the warm water with the sugar for 5-10 minutes before adding to the flour.
My dough didn’t rise. What happened? Your yeast may be old, or the water was too hot and killed it. Ensure water is warm (105-115°F) and your yeast is fresh.
Can I make this without a cast iron skillet? Absolutely. Use a preheated baking sheet or a Dutch oven. The key is a hot, heavy vessel to create steam.
How should I store leftover bread? Store in a paper bag at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze whole or sliced in an airtight bag.
Can I add other herbs or cheese? Definitely. Thyme or oregano work well. For cheese, try folding in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar with the herbs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using boiling water: It will kill the yeast. Aim for warm, not hot.
- Not preheating the skillet: A cold pan won’t give you that initial oven spring and crisp crust.
- Skipping the cooling time: Slicing too soon releases steam and makes the interior gummy.
- Over-flouring the kneading surface: This can make the dough dry and dense. Use only as much as needed to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
This Rosemary Garlic Artisan Bread is a simple yet impressive bake that fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma. The combination of earthy rosemary and savory garlic baked into a crusty, chewy loaf is truly irresistible. Mastering this recipe opens the door to endless customizations. So, preheat that skillet, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, and enjoy the deeply satisfying process of baking your own perfect artisan bread.
