Herbes de provence french bread
Herbes de Provence French Bread Recipe from France
Introduction
Herbes de Provence French bread is a delicious and aromatic bread that is perfect for serving with soups, salads, or as a side dish. The combination of warm water, dry yeast, sugar, salt, herbes de Provence, and flour creates a flavorful and fragrant bread that is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
The use of herbes de Provence in French bread dates back to the Provence region of France, where these aromatic herbs are commonly used in cooking. The blend typically includes a mixture of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, oregano, and marjoram, which add a unique and savory flavor to the bread.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Stir together the first five ingredients to dissolve the yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the flour and knead for 10 minutes. Cover and let the dough rise until doubled in size. Punch down the dough and knead it a few times to remove air. Divide the dough into four equal pieces and shape each piece into a long loaf. Place the loaves in well-greased French bread pans and slash the tops. Brush the loaves with egg white and let them rise until doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the loaves for 10 minutes. Then reduce the heat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the loaves sound hollow when tapped. Remove the loaves from the pans and let them cool on racks. If desired, wrap the loaves in aluminum foil and freeze them.
Variations
- Add grated Parmesan cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.
- Mix in chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use warm water when activating the yeast to ensure that it properly dissolves and activates.
- Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes to develop the gluten and create a light and airy texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place to ensure that it doubles in size.
- Brushing the loaves with egg white before baking will give them a shiny and golden crust.
- To freeze the loaves, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Herbes de Provence French bread warm with butter or olive oil for dipping, or use it to make sandwiches or toast.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is essential for developing gluten and creating a light and airy texture.
- Letting the dough rise twice will result in a better flavor and texture.
- Slashing the tops of the loaves before baking allows steam to escape and prevents the bread from cracking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use fresh herbs instead of dried herbes de Provence for a more intense flavor.
- Substitute honey or maple syrup for the sugar for a slightly sweeter bread.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the bread.
Make Ahead Tips
The dough for Herbes de Provence French bread can be made ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. Simply let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Herbes de Provence French bread on a wooden cutting board with a bread knife for a rustic presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt for an elegant touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Herbes de Provence French bread pairs well with soups, salads, grilled meats, and cheeses. Serve it alongside a charcuterie board or as a side dish for a French-inspired meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Herbes de Provence French bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in aluminum foil and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Herbes de Provence French bread contains approximately 160 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Herbes de Provence French bread contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Herbes de Provence French bread contains approximately 1 gram of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Herbes de Provence French bread contains approximately 6 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Herbes de Provence French bread is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6.
Alergens
This recipe contains gluten from the flour and may not be suitable for those with gluten allergies.
Summary
Herbes de Provence French bread is a nutritious and delicious bread that is low in fat and calories, but high in carbohydrates and protein.
Summary
Herbes de Provence French bread is a flavorful and aromatic bread that is perfect for serving with a variety of dishes. With a combination of warm water, dry yeast, sugar, salt, herbes de Provence, and flour, this bread is easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy it warm with butter or olive oil, or use it to make sandwiches or toast.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Herbes de Provence French bread. It was given to me by a dear friend who had recently returned from a trip to the beautiful region of Provence in France. She raved about the aromatic herbs that infused the air in the charming villages and the delicious bread that was served at every meal.
As a lover of all things culinary, I was instantly intrigued and couldn't wait to try my hand at creating this flavorful bread in my own kitchen. My friend had described the process in great detail, from the selection of the herbs to the precise measurements and baking time. I knew that it would be a labor of love, but I was determined to master this traditional recipe.
I set out to gather the necessary ingredients, starting with a selection of fresh herbs from my garden. I carefully picked rosemary, thyme, oregano, and lavender, taking care to ensure that they were at the peak of their flavor. I also gathered flour, yeast, salt, and olive oil, all of which would play a crucial role in creating the perfect loaf of Herbes de Provence French bread.
With my ingredients in hand, I began the process of making the bread. I started by proofing the yeast in warm water, watching in amazement as it began to bubble and froth. I then added the flour, salt, and olive oil, mixing the ingredients together until a dough formed. As I kneaded the dough, I could smell the fragrant herbs mingling with the earthy aroma of the bread.
After allowing the dough to rise, I shaped it into a loaf and sprinkled it generously with the Herbes de Provence mixture. The blend of herbs created a beautiful and enticing aroma that filled my kitchen with the essence of the French countryside. I carefully scored the top of the loaf before placing it in the oven to bake.
As the bread baked, I anxiously watched through the oven door, eagerly anticipating the moment when I would be able to taste the fruits of my labor. The scent of the Herbes de Provence wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. When the bread was finally done, I carefully removed it from the oven, marveling at its golden crust and the swirls of herbs that adorned its surface.
I allowed the bread to cool slightly before slicing into it, revealing a soft and fragrant interior that was flecked with herbs. The first bite was a revelation, with the flavors of rosemary, thyme, and lavender dancing on my taste buds. The bread was crusty on the outside and tender on the inside, a perfect representation of the rustic loaves that are so beloved in Provence.
As I savored each bite of the Herbes de Provence French bread, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had successfully recreated a traditional recipe from a far-off land, bringing a taste of Provence to my own kitchen. I knew that this bread would become a staple in my repertoire, a reminder of the joy that can be found in exploring new flavors and techniques.
In the years that followed, I shared the recipe for Herbes de Provence French bread with friends and family, spreading the love and appreciation for this delicious and aromatic loaf. Each time I made it, I was transported back to that moment of wonder and excitement when I first discovered the recipe. And as I continued to experiment with new flavors and ingredients, I was reminded of the endless possibilities that exist in the world of cooking.
I may have learned the recipe for Herbes de Provence French bread from a friend, but it was my own passion and dedication that allowed me to truly make it my own. Cooking has always been a source of joy and creativity for me, and this recipe was no exception. It taught me the value of patience, attention to detail, and the importance of savoring each moment in the kitchen.
As I sit here now, reflecting on that first experience of making Herbes de Provence French bread, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey that has brought me to this point. I may have learned the recipe from someone else, but it is now a part of my own story, a cherished memory that I will carry with me always. Cooking has a way of connecting us to the past, present, and future, and I am grateful for the role it has played in shaping my life.
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