Embark on a culinary journey through flavors that linger in memory with our exquisite Savory Hazelnut and Bacon Brioche. This delectable creation draws its inspiration from the hands of Amaryll Schwertner at Boulette’s Larder in San Francisco’s Ferry Building, where exceptional bites become unforgettable moments. Crafted with the finest ingredients and a touch of ingenuity, this brioche offers a savory symphony that pairs exquisitely with peach or plum jam, or even fig conserve. Whether enjoyed toasted or as the foundation of a gourmet egg sandwich, this brioche embodies culinary artistry at its finest.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 pounds Brioche dough
- 8 ounces thick-cut smoked bacon or pancetta, cut into batons
- 3/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
- 1 small bunch of fresh thyme, stems removed
- Grated zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
PREPARATIONS:
- When making the brioche dough, set aside 2 pounds of the dough before bulk fermentation.
- In a wide bowl, combine bacon, hazelnuts, thyme leaves, orange zest, and freshly ground pepper. Add this mixture to the reserved brioche dough and mix thoroughly by hand.
- Let the dough rise at a warm room temperature (about 80°F) for approximately 2 hours.
- Brush the inside of four tall ring molds (each 4 inches in diameter) with melted butter. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the molds on it.
- Turn the dough out onto a work surface, divide it into four pieces, and shape each piece into a round. Place each round in a ring mold.
- Allow the dough to rise at a warm room temperature (about 80°F) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Bake the brioche until it turns a beautiful golden brown, typically around 35 to 40 minutes.
- Gently unmold the baked brioche onto a wire rack to cool.
- Serve the brioche fresh or toasted, enjoying every bite of its savory magnificence.
YIELD:
- Makes 2 loaves
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare tall ring molds for shaping the brioche.
- Perform turns during the rising process to enhance texture and flavor.
TIPS:
- Experiment with different jams or conserves for a personalized flavor pairing.
- For a delightful breakfast treat, create a fried egg sandwich using the lardon buns.
The Savory Hazelnut and Bacon Brioche is a symphony of flavors, a masterpiece born from the heart of culinary artistry. Its inspiration hails from the renowned Boulette’s Larder, where exceptional tastes are woven into every bite. As you relish the delicate balance of savory bacon, earthy hazelnuts, and the aromatic essence of thyme, you embark on a sensory adventure that transcends the ordinary.
This brioche is more than a mere bread; it’s an experience, a tribute to the harmonious fusion of ingredients that transform a humble dough into a work of gastronomic brilliance. The velvety richness of the brioche dough provides the perfect canvas, a foundation upon which the smoky allure of thick-cut bacon dances in harmony with the nutty embrace of toasted hazelnuts.
The marriage of flavors continues as zesty orange zest adds a citrusy brightness, while freshly ground pepper lends a hint of warmth. This ensemble of tastes, meticulously mixed and masterfully melded, is a testament to the craft and dedication that define great creations.
Elevating this brioche to a realm of culinary enchantment is the delicate touch of fresh thyme, its herbaceous notes weaving a tapestry of aroma and taste. And as the brioche bakes to golden perfection, it becomes a symphony of texture and flavor, a melody that unfolds with every bite.
Whether enjoyed fresh or toasted, each slice of this brioche carries within it the heart and soul of masterful baking. Pair it with peach or plum jam, as Amaryll Schwertner suggests, and let the flavors harmonize in a crescendo of delight. Alternatively, envision the lardon bun cradling a perfectly fried egg, a breakfast masterpiece that greets the day with unparalleled taste.
In the world of culinary creations, the Savory Hazelnut and Bacon Brioche stands as a true testament to the art of flavor alchemy. As you savor its essence, you become part of a lineage that cherishes tradition while embracing innovation—a journey that pays homage to the past while ushering in the future of gourmet delights.
