Italian Herb Bread I: A Classic Homemade Delight

Name: Italian Herb Bread I: A Classic Homemade Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 140 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 cup warm water (about 43°C (110°F)); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tbsp dried basil; 1 tbsp dried thyme; 1 tbsp dried rosemary

140 min 12 slices Medium

All Recipes

Savoury Italian Herb Bread I combines herbs and a soft crumb, perfect for any meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

140 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Italian Herb Bread I is a delightful loaf that infuses the warm, comforting essence of Italian herbs into every bite. This recipe is perfect for those craving a homemade bread that pairs beautifully with soups, salads, and main courses. The magic of this bread lies in its simplicity and the aromatic blend of herbs that give it a burst of flavour. It's designed for both novice and seasoned bakers who appreciate a rustic yet refined addition to their table.

Instructions

Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Pro tip: Ensure water is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.

Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon for easier mixing.

Knead the dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Pro tip: If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as needed.

First rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Pro tip: A warm, draft-free area like a turned-off oven works well.

Shape the loaf

Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Pro tip: Ensure the dough is evenly shaped to bake uniformly.

Second rise

Cover with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes, or until the dough has risen above the pan edges.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) during the second rise.

Pro tip: Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even baking.

Bake the bread

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Pro tip: Turn the loaf halfway through baking for even colour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh herbs for a more robust flavour.
Ensure your yeast is active for proper rising.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Italian Herb Bread I?

Italian Herb Bread I is a homemade bread infused with a blend of Italian herbs, offering a savoury and aromatic flavour.

How many calories are in a slice of Italian Herb Bread I?

Each slice of Italian Herb Bread I contains approximately 150 calories.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

How can I tell when the bread is done?

The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can this bread be frozen?

Yes, Italian Herb Bread I can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Italian Herb Bread I warm with a generous spread of butter or olive oil. It's an excellent companion for pasta dishes or grilled meats. If you're planning ahead, you can make this bread a day in advance and store it in an airtight container to retain its freshness.