Rustic No Knead Rosemary Garlic Bread

Introduction:

Enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread with this Rustic No Knead Rosemary Garlic Bread. Infused with fragrant garlic and rosemary, this easy-to-make bread requires no kneading and delivers a crispy crust and a tender, flavorful interior. Perfect for any meal or as a standalone treat.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (or more, to taste)
• 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt
• ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 ½ cups water, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine flour, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, black pepper, and instant yeast.
   • Add water and mix until a wet, sticky dough forms, which should take about 30 seconds.
   • Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 18 to 24 hours until the surface is dotted with bubbles.
2. Shape and Proof the Dough:
   • Lightly oil a 10-inch cast iron skillet or coat it with nonstick spray. Sprinkle the bottom with cornmeal.
   • On a lightly floured surface, gently shape the dough into a round shape.
   • Place the dough into the prepared skillet. Cover with a clean dishtowel and let it rise at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size and does not readily spring back when poked.
3. Bake the Bread:
   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
   • Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
   • Let the bread cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Herb Variations: Try adding other herbs like thyme or sage for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese into the dough for a cheesy twist.
• Garlic Variation: For a stronger garlic flavor, increase the amount of minced garlic or add garlic powder.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also toast individual slices for a crispy texture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but it may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
2. What if I don’t have instant yeast? You can use active dry yeast instead. Just dissolve it in warm water before adding it to the dough.
3. How can I make the bread more flavorful? Add additional herbs, spices, or even chopped olives for extra flavor.
4. Can I make this bread without a cast iron skillet? Yes, you can use any oven-safe pan or baking dish. Just make sure to line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
5. Why does the dough need to rest for so long? The long resting time allows the dough to develop flavor and texture without the need for kneading.
6. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the ingredients and use two pans, or bake in batches.
7. How do I know when the bread is done? The bread is done when it is golden brown and has a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.
8. Can I add cheese to the bread? Yes, you can fold in shredded cheese or sprinkle it on top before baking.
9. What should I do if the dough is too sticky? Lightly flour your hands and the surface while shaping the dough. If it remains too sticky, add a bit more flour.
10. Can I use fresh rosemary instead of dried? Yes, fresh rosemary works well and can add a vibrant flavor to the bread.

Conclusion

Rustic No Knead Rosemary Garlic Bread is a delightful addition to any meal or a perfect standalone treat. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Enjoy the process and the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen!

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