Italian Seasoned Bread Recipe π
Overview:
This Italian Seasoned Bread is a culinary marvel, offering a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that elevate it to the ranks of exceptional non-knead bread. With a perfect balance of herbs and cheeses, this bread pairs exquisitely with homemade soups or classic dishes like chicken cacciatore. What’s more, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the secrets behind this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this Italian Seasoned Bread:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 cups | Warm water |
| 2 tsp | Dry yeast |
| 2 tsp | Sugar |
| 2 tsp | Salt |
| 2 tbsp | Butter or margarine |
| 1/2 cup | Parmesan cheese, grated |
| 1 tbsp | Dried oregano |
| 1 1/2 tsp | Fresh oregano, chopped |
| 4 1/2 cups | All-purpose flour |
Instructions:
Follow these steps to create your own Italian Seasoned Bread:
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Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a quart-sized bowl or measuring cup, combine warm water, butter or margarine, sugar, salt, and a tablespoon of flour. Stir the mixture until well combined.
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Activate Yeast: Add the dry yeast to the mixture and let it sit for five minutes, allowing the yeast to activate. You’ll notice the mixture becoming slightly frothy.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and fresh oregano.
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Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Slowly pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine.
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Add Remaining Flour: Gradually add the remaining flour to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
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Let Rise: Cover the bowl with a damp dish towel and plastic wrap, then set it aside to rise for 45 minutes, or until the dough is light and bubbly.
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Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
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Prepare Casserole: Butter a two-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
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Shape Dough: Once the dough has risen, stir it until it collapses, then transfer it into the greased casserole dish.
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Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dough.
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Second Rise: Allow the dough to rise for an additional 30 minutes before baking.
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Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the bread is lightly browned and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Check Doneness: To ensure the bread is fully baked, remove it from the casserole dish and lightly thump the bottom. If it sounds hollow, it’s done. If not, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with real butter for a truly indulgent experience.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 330.2 per serving
- Fat Content: 5.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 13.7mg
- Sodium Content: 710.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 58.1g
- Fiber Content: 2.5g
- Sugar Content: 3.4g
- Protein Content: 10.7g
Serving Suggestions:
This Italian Seasoned Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, accompanied by a generous spread of real butter. Serve it alongside your favorite homemade soup for a comforting meal, or pair it with classic Italian dishes like chicken cacciatore for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious loaf of bread, this recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Enjoy! π₯π²
