Italian Herb Bread Recipe: A Perfect Addition to Any Meal
This delightful Italian Herb Bread recipe brings the authentic flavors of Italy right to your kitchen, inviting you to indulge in the warm, comforting aromas of freshly baked bread infused with a medley of herbs. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty pasta dish, a vibrant salad, or simply enjoying it on its own with a drizzle of olive oil, this bread is sure to become a cherished favorite. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to create your very own loaf of Italian Herb Bread, crafted with love and shared generously from lovewithrecipes.com.
Recipe Overview
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dry yeast | 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) |
| Warm water | 1 cup (about 110°F or 43°C) |
| Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg | 1 large |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (plus extra for kneading) |
| Mixed Italian herbs (e.g., oregano, basil, rosemary) | 1 tablespoon (dried) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1455.9 |
| Total Fat | 35.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 211.5 mg |
| Sodium | 2409.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 242.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.1 g |
| Sugars | 26.3 g |
| Protein | 38 g |
Total Time
- Preparation Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield
- Recipe Yield: 1 loaf
Instructions
-
Activate the Yeast:
Start by dissolving the dry yeast in warm water in a mixing bowl. Make sure the water is around 110°F (43°C), which is warm but not too hot to touch. Add the sugar to the mixture; this will help feed the yeast, allowing it to bloom effectively. Let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is active. -
-
Combine Ingredients:
Once the yeast is ready, add the salt and egg to the bowl, whisking gently to combine. Gradually incorporate the flour, starting with 2 cups. You can use a wooden spoon or a dough whisk to mix until the dough begins to come together. The addition of the herbs at this stage will infuse your bread with flavor, so feel free to add your choice of dried Italian herbs to the mix. -
Knead the Dough:
The dough will be sticky, which is perfectly fine. Sprinkle a little extra flour onto a clean work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour as necessary to keep it from sticking, until it becomes smooth and elastic. -
First Rise:
Once kneaded, place the dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 30 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size. This step is crucial for developing the bread’s structure. -
Shape and Second Rise:
After the first rise, punch down the dough gently to release the excess air. Transfer it to a greased 2-quart casserole dish. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and place it in the dish. Cover again with the damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes, allowing it to expand and prepare for baking. -
Bake the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen for the second time, place it in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The bread is done when it has a golden brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. -
Cool and Serve:
After baking, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the casserole dish for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, either as a side to your favorite Italian dishes or enjoyed on its own with olive oil or butter.
This Italian Herb Bread, with its crispy crust and soft, flavorful interior, is not just a recipe; it’s an experience, allowing you to bring the taste of Italy home and share it with your loved ones. Perfect for gatherings, family meals, or as a treat for yourself, this bread is bound to impress. Enjoy every slice!
