Rosemary Bread

This is a plan for creating a delectable rosemary-infused wheat bread. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can make a flavorful loaf that combines the earthy aroma of rosemary with the wholesome goodness of wheat flour. The process involves mixing the ingredients, rolling out the dough, infusing it with olive oil and fresh rosemary, and finally baking it to perfection. The resulting bread will have a beautiful swirl of rosemary and a tantalizing aroma that will make it an enticing addition to any meal or a delightful snack on its own. Let’s dive into the details of this recipe and embark on a culinary adventure to create a delicious rosemary-infused wheat bread.

Makes 1 loaf

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 oz (80 g) wheat sourdough starter
• 2 cups (250 g) wheat flour
• ½ cup (125 ml) water, room temperature
• 3½ tsp (10 g) fresh yeast
• 1 tsp (5 g) salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• fresh rosemary

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Mix wheat sourdough starter, 2 cups wheat flour, water (room temperature), and fresh yeast in a bowl. Ensure the ingredients are well combined to form a smooth dough.
2. Let the dough rise for 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 475°F (250°C).
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle that is approximately one-tenth of an inch (3 mm) thick.
5. Brush the rolled-out dough with olive oil.
6. Chop fresh rosemary and sprinkle it evenly over the dough.
7. Starting from the short side of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough, securing the ends.
8. Place the rolled dough on a baking sheet and let it rise for about 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 400°F (210°C) while the dough is rising.
10. Score a deep incision in the center of the dough roll so that all the layers are visible.
11. Let the dough rise for an additional 10 minutes.
12. Sprinkle a cup of water onto the bottom of the oven to create steam.
13. Place the bread in the preheated oven and lower the temperature to 400°F (210°C).
14. Bake the bread for approximately 20 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
15. Once baked, let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

Serving: Once your rosemary-infused wheat bread is ready, there are various ways you can serve and enjoy it. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Sliced with Butter: Slice the bread into thick slices and spread them with butter. The combination of warm, freshly baked bread and creamy butter is simple yet incredibly satisfying.
• Bruschetta: Cut the bread into smaller slices, toast them until crispy, and top with your favorite bruschetta toppings. Consider options like diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This appetizer is perfect for gatherings or as a light snack.
• Sandwiches: Use the rosemary-infused wheat bread as the foundation for delicious sandwiches. Add your preferred fillings like sliced turkey, ham, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. The fragrant rosemary flavor will elevate the overall taste of your sandwich.
• Crostini: Slice the bread into thin pieces, brush them with olive oil, and toast until golden brown. These crostini make excellent vehicles for a variety of toppings, such as creamy dips, tapenades, or cheese spreads.
• Soup Accompaniment: Serve slices of the bread alongside a warm bowl of soup. The bread’s crusty exterior and soft interior will soak up the flavors of the soup, creating a delightful combination.
• Cheese and Bread Board: Create a rustic cheese and bread board featuring an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, olives, and condiments. The rosemary-infused wheat bread can be torn into rustic chunks and enjoyed alongside the other elements of the board.
• Toasted Croutons: Cube the bread and toast it in the oven until golden and crispy. These homemade croutons can be added to salads or soups for an extra crunch and flavor.

This rosemary-infused wheat bread will delight your taste buds with its aromatic flavor and soft texture.