Country-Style Walnut and Rosemary Bread Recipe
This hearty and rustic Country-Style Walnut and Rosemary Bread is the perfect addition to any Mediterranean meal. With a combination of fresh rosemary, walnuts, and garlic, this bread brings a wonderful aroma and flavor to your table. This recipe, adapted from Richard Sax and Marie Simmons, is simple to follow and results in a beautifully textured loaf that is sure to become a favorite. Ideal for those who enjoy making their own bread, this recipe requires a bit of patience with rising times but delivers great rewards. The mix of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour gives this bread a slightly nutty flavor and a dense, satisfying texture. Let’s dive into making this Mediterranean-inspired bread!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Warm water | 2 cups |
| Dry yeast | 2 teaspoons |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Whole wheat flour | 2 cups |
| Fresh rosemary | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried rosemary | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2395.5 kcal |
| Fat | 72.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 3524.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 380.3 g |
| Fiber | 43.5 g |
| Sugar | 3.2 g |
| Protein | 73.3 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Start by preparing the yeast mixture. In a large bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the yeast to dissolve and become active. This will ensure the bread rises properly.
Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, rosemary (both fresh and dried), and salt. This will create the dry mixture that will later be added to the yeast mixture.
Step 3: Stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the yeast mixture. Once combined, begin gradually adding the flour mixture. Stir until the ingredients are incorporated and a dough begins to form.
Step 4: Attach the dough hook to your electric mixer and mix the dough on medium speed for about 10 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, you can add more all-purpose flour until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Once the dough is well mixed, transfer it to a floured surface and knead it by hand for about 3 minutes. This helps strengthen the dough and improves its texture.
Step 6: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled large bowl. Turn the dough around to coat it evenly with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 ¼ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 7: While the dough is rising, prepare the walnut mixture. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic in a small skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute. Stir in the chopped walnuts and black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. Discard the garlic once it has infused the oil.
Step 8: After the dough has finished rising, punch it down to release any trapped air. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
Step 9: Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a round shape, approximately 12 inches in diameter. Spread the cooled walnut and garlic mixture evenly over the dough.
Step 10: Carefully fold the dough over the walnut mixture, sealing the edges. Knead the dough for about 3 minutes to distribute the walnuts evenly throughout the dough.
Step 11: Shape the dough into a round ball and place it on a large, heavy baking sheet, with the smooth side facing up. Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise again in a warm, draft-free area for about 35 minutes, or until it is nearly doubled in size.
Step 12: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, it’s time to bake. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the bread for about 45 minutes. The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 13: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a rack before slicing. Enjoy the rustic, nutty flavor of this hearty bread with your favorite Mediterranean dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This Country-Style Walnut and Rosemary Bread pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean-inspired meals like olive tapenade, hummus, or roasted vegetables. It’s also delicious served warm with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of butter. Whether served as an appetizer, alongside a main dish, or as part of a hearty meal, this bread is sure to impress.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the water temperature is warm, not hot: Water that is too hot can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly.
- Kneading is key: The dough should be smooth and elastic after kneading. If it’s too sticky, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Let the dough rise in a warm spot: If your kitchen is cool, try placing the dough near a warm oven or in a turned-off oven with just the light on.
- Use a sharp knife or bread lame to score the top of the bread: This will help it bake more evenly and allow the steam to escape.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This rustic loaf combines the earthy flavors of walnuts and rosemary with the heartiness of whole wheat flour, making it a standout bread perfect for any occasion. The added garlic and black pepper bring depth to the flavor, while the walnuts add texture and richness. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your family and friends with a homemade, Mediterranean-inspired bread that looks as good as it tastes.
Happy baking!
