Rustic Rosemary Garlic Zucchini Bread Recipe
Experience the comforting, savory delight of homemade zucchini bread with a touch of aromatic rosemary and garlic. This rustic loaf is soft and slightly firm with a perfect golden brown crust, making it an ideal companion to any dinner or as a delicious snack with your favorite spread.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 2 cups |
| All-Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1 cup |
| Lukewarm Water | 1/4 cup |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 tablespoon |
| Rosemary (finely chopped) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Green Zucchini (shredded) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Sunflower Seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Water (for dough) | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~170 kcal |
| Protein | ~5g |
| Total Fat | ~2.5g |
| Saturated Fat | ~0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sugars | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~240mg |
| Cholesterol | ~0mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the dry ingredients are well combined.
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Incorporate the Flavorful Additions: To the flour mixture, add the minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, shredded zucchini, and sunflower seeds. These ingredients will infuse the bread with a delightful herbal and savory flavor.
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Knead the Dough: Gradually add warm water to the mixture, a little at a time, and knead the dough. You can do this either by hand or using an electric mixer with a dough hook attachment. Continue kneading until the dough is smooth and slightly firm, yet still a bit sticky. Be mindful when adding water, as the zucchini itself releases moisture, which will affect the dough’s consistency. If the dough feels too sticky, just a little more flour can be added.
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First Rise: Once the dough is ready, shape it into a ball and place it in a well-oiled bowl, making sure the dough is coated lightly with oil on all sides. Cover the bowl tightly with cling wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
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Shape the Loafs: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into two equal portions, then form each into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle some rosemary on top to enhance the flavor.
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Second Rise: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them again with plastic wrap and let them rest for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the dough to rise further and become fluffy.
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Preheat the Oven: About 10 minutes before the dough is done rising, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
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Bake the Bread: Using a sharp knife, make a few shallow cuts across the surface of each dough ball to prevent cracking during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re unsure, use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C).
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Brush with Butter: As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush the tops generously with butter to soften the crust and add a touch of richness. Let the butter melt into the warm bread.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This will help the bread set and make it easier to slice without crumbling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Rustic Rosemary Garlic Zucchini Bread as a side dish with a hearty pasta meal, like Pasta in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, or enjoy it on its own as a flavorful snack. The subtle blend of garlic and rosemary enhances the savory nature of the bread, making it a perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or grilled dishes.
Additional Tips:
- For Extra Fluffiness: If you prefer a lighter texture, consider adding an extra teaspoon of yeast or letting the dough rise for a little longer.
- Zucchini Moisture: If your zucchini is particularly wet, you can lightly press it with a towel to remove excess moisture before adding it to the dough. However, the moisture will help keep the bread moist.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme or oregano to personalize the bread to your liking.
Rustic Rosemary Garlic Zucchini Bread is a delightful and healthy way to enjoy the goodness of zucchini, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe is perfect for dinner, weekend gatherings, or as a wholesome snack that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!
