Herb and Onion Bread

Herb and Onion Bread Recipe

Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 1 loaf

Introduction

Herb and Onion Bread is a flavorful and aromatic bread that is perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a delicious snack on its own. The combination of herbs and onions gives this bread a unique and savory taste that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

This recipe for Herb and Onion Bread has been passed down through generations in many families. The use of herbs and onions in bread dates back to ancient times when these ingredients were readily available and added flavor to otherwise plain bread. Today, this recipe has been adapted and modified to suit modern tastes, but the essence of the original recipe remains the same.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of milk
2.25 cups of flour or wheat flour
1.5 tbsp of sugar
0.5 small onion, minced
1 tbsp of salt
0.5 tbsp of dried dill weed
1 pack of yeast
1 tbsp of crushed, dried rosemary
0.5 cup of warm water

How to prepare

Scald the milk and dissolve the sugar and salt in it; cool to lukewarm.
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water.
Add the cooled milk, flour, minced onion, and herbs, and stir well with a large wooden spoon.
When the batter is smooth, cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise in a warm place until triple in bulk—about 45 minutes.
Stir down and beat vigorously for a few minutes, then turn into a greased bread pan.
Let it stand in a warm place for about 10 minutes before putting it into a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C).
Bake for about 1 hour.

Basic bread info

Most recipes require dissolving the yeast in warm water. Ensure the water temperature is around 100 – 110°F (37 – 42°C, 310 – 315°K). Test it on your wrist, similar to testing baby formula.
Kneading the dough develops the gluten and incorporates the remaining flour. The amount of flour may vary due to differences in moisture content. Stop kneading when the dough no longer sticks to your hands. Let it rise in a greased bowl, ensuring the top is greased to prevent drying out. You can also use PAM spray or create a humid environment by placing a bowl of warm water nearby. Cover the bowl with a dish towel and place it in a warm, draft-free spot. The oven can be used for this purpose, without turning it on. Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size.
Some recipes may call for a second rise, which results in a lighter texture.
Shape the dough into loaves and bake.
Always preheat the oven before baking.
The bread is done when it pulls away from the sides of the pan. Alternatively, you can remove it from the pan, flip it over, and tap the bottom. If it sounds hollow, it is done. This is the preferred method for experienced bakers.
You can enjoy the bread fresh out of the oven, but it is easier to cut when cooled. However, it tastes better when eaten immediately.

Variations

Add grated cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean flavor.
Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to scald the milk before adding it to the other ingredients. This helps to activate the yeast and create a light and fluffy bread.

- Be sure to let the dough rise in a warm place until it has tripled in size. This will ensure that the bread is light and airy.

- When kneading the dough, be sure to incorporate all of the flour until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky.

- For a crispy crust, brush the top of the bread with melted butter before baking.

- Serve the bread warm for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Herb and Onion Bread warm with butter or olive oil for dipping. It also pairs well with soups, salads, or as a side dish for a main course.

Cooking Techniques

Scald the milk before adding it to the other ingredients.

- Let the dough rise in a warm place until tripled in size.

- Bake the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 1 hour.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat flour instead of white flour for a healthier option.

- Substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs for a more intense flavor.

- Use red onion or shallots instead of white onion for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Herb and Onion Bread ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Herb and Onion Bread on a wooden cutting board with a bread knife for easy slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Herb and Onion Bread pairs well with a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, pasta, and grilled meats. It also goes well with cheeses, olives, and cured meats for a delicious appetizer platter.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Herb and Onion Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Herb and Onion Bread contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Herb and Onion Bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Herb and Onion Bread contains approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Herb and Onion Bread contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Herb and Onion Bread is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and dairy.

Summary

Herb and Onion Bread is a delicious and nutritious bread that is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great addition to any meal or snack.

Summary

Herb and Onion Bread is a flavorful and aromatic bread that is perfect for serving alongside a variety of dishes. With its savory herbs and onions, this bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy it warm with butter or olive oil for a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a beautiful sunny day in the countryside, and I had decided to take a leisurely stroll through the farmer's market. As I wandered through the stalls, my eyes landed on a vendor selling freshly baked bread. The aroma of herbs and onions wafted through the air, and I knew I had to try it.

I approached the vendor, a kind elderly woman with a warm smile. She told me that the bread was a family recipe passed down through generations, and that she had been making it for as long as she could remember. Intrigued, I asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed.

As she recited the ingredients and instructions, I listened intently, taking mental notes of every detail. The recipe called for a mix of fresh herbs – parsley, thyme, and chives – as well as diced onions for added flavor. The dough was made with a combination of flour, yeast, water, and a touch of honey for sweetness.

Once the dough was kneaded and left to rise, it was shaped into loaves and baked to perfection. The result was a crusty, golden brown bread with a soft and fluffy interior, infused with the fragrant aroma of herbs and onions. I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work. As I mixed and kneaded the dough, I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. Cooking has always been a form of therapy for me, a way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and lose myself in the joy of creation.

After the bread had baked and cooled, I sliced off a piece and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – the earthy freshness of the herbs, the sweetness of the onions, the chewiness of the bread. It was a sensory delight, a perfect harmony of tastes and textures. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this herb and onion bread countless times, each batch better than the last. I have shared it with family and friends, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a symbol of comfort and tradition in our home, a reminder of the simple pleasures that can be found in a loaf of bread.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the kind vendor who shared it with me that fateful day. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to pass on traditions and create lasting memories. And this herb and onion bread recipe is a testament to that – a reminder that food is more than just sustenance, it is a form of love and nourishment for the soul.