Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread

Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread Recipe - Vegan Bread Recipe

Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread is a delightful recipe that combines the aromatic flavors of fresh rosemary and garlic with the classic comfort of homemade bread. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the art of baking and enjoy the process of creating something truly special from scratch. The combination of ingredients and the method of preparation have been carefully chosen to ensure a delicious and satisfying result. Whether you're an experienced baker or trying your hand at bread for the first time, this recipe promises to guide you through a rewarding culinary journey.

History

The origins of rosemary and garlic bread trace back to the Mediterranean region, where these ingredients have been staples in the diet for centuries. Rosemary, with its fragrant, needle-like leaves, is native to the Mediterranean area and has been used both for its culinary and medicinal properties. Garlic, too, is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, celebrated for its flavor and health benefits. This recipe, inspired by traditional Mediterranean bread, has been passed down and refined through generations, with Annie's version capturing the essence of its rich history while adding a personal touch.

Ingredients

3 cups bread flour (possibly more if needed for dough consistency)
0.33 cup olive oil
1 packet active yeast (2.25 tsp)
1.5 cups lukewarm water (110°F or 43°C)
0.25 cup chopped fresh rosemary
3 to 6 cloves minced garlic
1 tsp salt
2 tsp kosher salt (or sea salt)
1 tbsp sugar

How to prepare

Mix together the water, yeast, sugar, and half of the rosemary.
Add 1 tsp of salt to the flour, then gradually add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture until the dough forms a ball.
Knead the dough on a well-floured board or table for 10 minutes.
Place the dough in a well-oiled bowl, cover it, and let it sit in a warm place until it doubles in size (about an hour).
Mix together the oil, remaining rosemary, and garlic.
Punch the dough down and knead it a few times to make it easier to handle.
Shape the dough into 2 loaves and place them several inches apart on a baking sheet.
Score the loaves and pour the oil mixture on top of them.
Sprinkle each loaf with kosher salt and allow them to rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Bake the loaves for 15 minutes or until they turn golden.
Tip: Place a bowl of cold water in the oven to create steam and keep the bread moist.

Variations

For a twist on the original recipe, consider adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese such as feta or Parmesan into the dough. These ingredients will introduce new flavors and textures to the bread.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, here are some tips and tricks:

- Use fresh rosemary for a more vibrant flavor.

- Make sure the water is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly.

- Knead the dough thoroughly to develop the gluten, which will give the bread its structure.

- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure it doubles in size effectively.

- Scoring the loaves allows them to expand during baking without splitting in unwanted areas.

Serving Suggestions

This bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a hearty soup or stew, use it to make a flavorful sandwich, or simply enjoy it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include kneading the dough to develop gluten, allowing the dough to rise properly for texture, and baking at the right temperature to achieve a golden crust and soft interior.

Ingredient Substitutions

If bread flour is not available, all-purpose flour can be used, though the texture may be slightly different. Fresh rosemary can be substituted with dried rosemary (use 1/3 the amount), and garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic if necessary.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight for the first rise. Simply bring it to room temperature before proceeding with shaping and the second rise.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the bread on a rustic wooden board for a charming presentation. Garnish with sprigs of rosemary and whole cloves of garlic for an added touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This bread pairs beautifully with Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Enjoy it with pasta, salads, or as part of a cheese and charcuterie board.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread contains approximately 210 calories. This makes it a suitable option for a satisfying snack or part of a balanced meal.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread contains approximately 37 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the bread flour, which is essential for the structure and texture of the bread.

Fats

This recipe contains about 7 grams of fat per serving, mainly from the olive oil. Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and adds a subtle richness to the bread.

Proteins

Each serving of this bread provides around 5 grams of protein, coming primarily from the bread flour. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Rosemary and garlic not only add flavor but also contribute vitamins and minerals. Rosemary is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and minerals like calcium and iron. Garlic is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from bread flour, which may not be suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It is also important to note the potential allergen of yeast for those sensitive or allergic to it.

Summary

Overall, Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with beneficial vitamins and minerals from the rosemary and garlic. It is a flavorful, nutritious option for those looking to enjoy homemade bread.

Summary

Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread is a delightful recipe that brings the aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean into your kitchen. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and versatile serving options, this bread is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a meal, it offers a delicious and satisfying experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread. It was a warm summer day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook I had found at a yard sale. As I turned the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the ground. Curiosity piqued, I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for the most delicious bread I had ever tasted.

The recipe belonged to a dear friend of mine named Annie. She was a master in the kitchen and had a knack for creating mouthwatering dishes that always left me wanting more. I remembered the first time I had tried her Rosemary and Garlic Bread - it was at a dinner party she had hosted, and I had never tasted anything like it before.

As I read through the recipe, memories of Annie and her warm smile flooded back to me. She had always been generous with her cooking tips and tricks, and I had learned so much from her over the years. I knew that I had to try making her bread for myself.

I gathered all the ingredients listed on the recipe - flour, yeast, salt, sugar, olive oil, fresh rosemary, and garlic. As I began to mix the dough, the familiar scent of rosemary and garlic filled the air, bringing back memories of happy times spent in Annie's kitchen.

I let the dough rise, and as I punched it down and shaped it into a loaf, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. This bread was more than just a recipe - it was a connection to a dear friend and a reminder of the joy that cooking can bring.

As the bread baked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma of rosemary and garlic wafted through the house, making my mouth water in anticipation. When I pulled the loaf out of the oven and sliced into it, the crust crackled and the soft crumb revealed delicate flecks of rosemary and garlic. I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the familiar flavors that I had missed so much.

I knew that Annie's Rosemary and Garlic Bread would become a staple in my kitchen, a recipe that I would pass down to future generations. It wasn't just about the ingredients or the method - it was about the memories and the love that went into every loaf.

As I sat down to enjoy a slice of the warm bread with a pat of butter, I raised my glass to Annie and whispered a silent thank you. Thank you for sharing your recipe, your love, and your passion for cooking. Thank you for inspiring me to create something truly special in my own kitchen.

And as I savored every bite of that delicious bread, I knew that Annie's legacy would live on through each loaf that I baked. She may have passed on, but her spirit and her recipes would always be a part of me. And for that, I would be forever grateful.