Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf fresh out of the oven

Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf

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Why Make This Recipe

Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf is not just any bread; it’s a delicious journey of flavors that brings together garlic and fresh rosemary in a warm, crusty loaf. This bread is perfect for any meal or simply enjoyed on its own. Baking your artisan bread at home provides a sense of accomplishment and fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can make a loaf that rivals bakery-bought bread. This artisanal loaf is sure to impress your family and friends and make any meal feel special.

How to Make Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf

Creating this Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf is a straightforward process, and even novice bakers can easily master it. Here are the simple steps you need to follow to bring this delicious loaf to life.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf

Directions

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, begin by combining the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Ensure that these ingredients are well-mixed. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the yeast, which helps the dough rise.

  2. Add Water: Gradually stir in the water until a rough dough starts to form. You may need to use your hands for this to ensure all the flour is incorporated.

  3. Incorporate Garlic and Rosemary: Once the dough begins to take shape, add in the chopped rosemary and minced garlic. These ingredients will infuse the bread with aromatic flavors.

  4. Knead the Dough: On a clean surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten in the flour, which is necessary for a good texture.

  5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours. The dough should double in size. This is the resting period where the yeast works its magic.

  6. Preheat the Oven: About 30 minutes before the dough is ready, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This prepares the oven for an optimal baking environment.

  7. Shape the Loaf: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air. Then, shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  8. Rest Again: Allow the shaped dough to rest for another 30 minutes. This helps it rise a little more and enhances the texture.

  9. Score and Bake: Gently score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. This allows the bread to expand as it bakes. Bake the loaf in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until it turns a beautiful golden brown color.

  10. Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. This cooling step allows the inside to set properly.

How to Serve Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf

This artisan loaf is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few enjoyable serving suggestions:

  • Pair with Olive Oil: A classic way to enjoy this loaf is by slicing it and serving with a bowl of quality olive oil for dipping. The robust flavors of garlic and rosemary blend beautifully with rich olive oil.

  • As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside soups and stews. The crusty exterior and soft interior make it perfect for soaking up sauces.

  • Sandwich Option: Use slices of this bread to make gourmet sandwiches. The flavor of rosemary and garlic enhances your fillings significantly.

  • Toast with Toppings: You can toast slices and spread a few toppings on them, like butter, cheese, or even avocado. The combinations are endless!

How to Store Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf

To keep your Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf fresh, follow these storage tips:

  • Room Temperature: Store the bread at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a few days. Place the loaf in a paper bag or wrap it in a kitchen towel to maintain its crustiness.

  • Freezing: If you need to store it for a longer time, slice the bread and place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat in the oven briefly to regain its fresh-baked quality.

  • Avoid Refrigeration: Storing bread in the fridge can dry it out. It’s better to keep it at room temperature or freeze it if necessary.

Tips to Make Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf

  1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh rosemary and garlic for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used, but fresh ingredients provide a more robust taste.

  2. Water Temperature: When adding water, make sure it’s warm but not hot. Water that is too hot may kill the yeast and prevent the bread from rising.

  3. Kneading Technique: If you find kneading by hand challenging, consider using a stand mixer with a dough hook. This saves time and effort.

  4. Dough Consistency: Pay attention to the dough’s consistency. If it feels too dry, add a little more water; if too wet, sprinkle in a little more flour until it feels just right.

  5. Scoring Pattern: Feel free to experiment with the scoring pattern on top of your loaf. Decorative designs can make your bread stand out and add a personal touch.

Variation

You can easily tweak this Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf recipe according to your taste preferences. Here are a few variations:

  • Add Cheese: Mixing in shredded cheese, like parmesan or cheddar, will give the loaf an extra burst of flavor.

  • Herb Blends: Experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or basil, in place of or alongside rosemary for different flavor profiles.

  • Nuts or Seeds: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds into the dough for added texture and nutrition.

  • Olives: Add chopped olives to the dough for a Mediterranean twist. This adds an amazing salty flavor to the bread.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in a denser loaf, so you might need to adjust the water amount.

2. How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, using a thermometer to check the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).

3. Can I make this bread without garlic?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the garlic and still enjoy a delicious rosemary bread.

4. How long will the bread stay fresh?
Homemade bread is best enjoyed within the first few days. However, if stored properly, it can be good for up to a week.

5. Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?
Yes, the double rising process improves the texture and flavor of the bread. Each rise helps develop the gluten, making the bread light and airy.

By following this simple recipe and using these tips, you can easily create a Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf that adds warmth and flavor to any meal. Happy baking!

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rustic garlic rosemary artisan loaf 2026 02 19 173924 1

Rustic Garlic Rosemary Artisan Loaf

  • Author: lily
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

A delicious artisan loaf infused with garlic and fresh rosemary, perfect for any meal or enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
  2. Add Water: Gradually stir in the water until a rough dough starts to form.
  3. Incorporate Garlic and Rosemary: Add in the chopped rosemary and minced garlic.
  4. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Let the Dough Rise: Cover and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  6. Preheat the Oven: About 30 minutes before ready, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  7. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place on a baking sheet.
  8. Rest Again: Allow the shaped dough to rest for another 30 minutes.
  9. Score and Bake: Score the top and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Cool and Slice: Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; avoid refrigerating the bread to maintain freshness.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: artisan bread, garlic bread, rosemary bread, homemade bread, easy baking

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