Introduction:
Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the kitchen. This artisanal rosemary bread offers a perfect balance between a soft, slightly airy texture and aromatic herbs. It will wonderfully complement all your meals or can simply be enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour,
1 1/2 teaspoons salt,
1 teaspoon sugar,
1 teaspoon instant yeast,
1 1/4 cups warm water,
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (plus a few extra sprigs for garnish),
2 tablespoons olive oil (for the dough and brushing),
coarse sea salt for garnishInstructions:
Prepare the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, yeast, and chopped rosemary.
Gradually add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours (ideally overnight).
Shape the dough:
Once the dough has risen, lightly flour a work surface and your hands.
Gently shape the dough into a round loaf without overworking it.
Preheat the oven and skillet:
Place a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven in the oven and preheat it to 450°F (230°C).
Prepare to bake:
Carefully transfer the dough to the preheated skillet.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt and additional sprigs of rosemary.
Bake the bread:
Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the lid and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.
Cool and serve:
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing.
Serve with olive oil, butter, or your favorite spread.
