Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. Rustic No-Knead Rosemary Garlic Bread is a delightful recipe that blends simplicity with complex flavors. With no kneading required, this bread is a game-changer for novice bakers and busy home cooks alike. The savory flavors of roasted garlic and fragrant rosemary come together in a soft, airy loaf with a golden, crispy crust. Whether you’re serving it alongside a cozy bowl of soup, pairing it with a hearty pasta dish, or just enjoying a slice with olive oil, this bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Not only is this bread incredibly flavorful, but it also requires minimal effort. The slow rise gives the dough time to develop its texture, while the combination of garlic and rosemary ensures a savory depth. A simple brushing of olive oil and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt give it that rustic finish. Let’s dive into the details and walk through the steps of creating this irresistible, aromatic bread!
Ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour – 3 cups
- Active Dry Yeast – 1 ¼ tsp
- Warm Water – 1 ½ cups (about 110°F)
- Olive Oil – 3 tbsp
- Garlic – 4-5 cloves, minced
- Fresh Rosemary – 2 tbsp, chopped (plus extra for topping)
- Sugar – 1 tsp
- Salt – 2 tsp
- Coarse Sea Salt – for topping
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, sugar, and salt. This is your dry base. Stir them together to ensure the yeast and other ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2:
Slowly pour in the warm water (make sure it’s around 110°F to activate the yeast) and 2 tbsp of olive oil. Stir everything together using a wooden spoon or spatula until it forms a sticky dough. The dough will appear loose, but this is exactly what you’re looking for in a no-knead recipe.
Step 3:
Fold in the minced garlic and chopped fresh rosemary, making sure they’re spread evenly throughout the dough. These ingredients are the stars of the show, adding a savory, aromatic punch to each bite.
Step 4:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rest in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size. The slow rise allows the dough to develop its texture and flavor.
Step 5:
Once the dough has risen, lightly flour a clean surface and gently turn the dough out. This is where the beauty of a no-knead recipe shines — no need to knead the dough! Simply shape it into a round or spiral by rolling the dough and coiling it into rounds, giving it a rustic, artisan look. Transfer the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
COOKING Note:
No-knead bread relies on a long rise time to develop its texture, so don’t skip the resting periods! Also, when brushing the bread with olive oil before baking, make sure you are generous, as this helps enhance the crust’s crispiness. If you prefer a deeper garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before adding them to the dough.
Serving Suggestions:
This rustic bread is versatile, making it the perfect accompaniment to many meals. Here are some suggestions:
- Soup Pairing: Serve alongside a hearty vegetable or tomato soup. The garlic and rosemary flavors will complement earthy or tangy soups.
- Dipping: Drizzle the bread with extra-virgin olive oil or serve with a side of garlic-infused olive oil for dipping. Add a sprinkle of black pepper and sea salt for a gourmet touch.
- Breakfast Toast: Slice and toast the bread for breakfast. Top it with butter or cream cheese, and add a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory twist.
Tips:
- Use fresh rosemary whenever possible for maximum flavor, but dried rosemary can be substituted if needed (use about 1 tbsp of dried rosemary).
- If you love garlic, try roasting the garlic cloves before adding them to the dough for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
- To ensure your bread has the perfect texture, resist the urge to over-handle the dough after its first rise. Gently shaping the dough will keep it airy and light.
- For an extra-crusty exterior, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of your oven while the bread bakes. The steam helps create a crispier crust.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Rising Time:
- 2 hours
Baking Time:
- 25-30 minutes
Total Time:
- 2 hrs 40 mins
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approx. 250 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg (may vary depending on sea salt topping)
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 1g
Conclusion:
Rustic No-Knead Rosemary Garlic Bread is a crowd-pleaser that offers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of fresh rosemary and garlic provides an aromatic, savory profile that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making this bread to serve at a dinner party, to enjoy with a homemade soup, or just to savor with some olive oil, it will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Plus, the fact that it requires no kneading means anyone can make it — even those with limited baking experience.
With its golden crust and fluffy interior, this bread can be served for any occasion. So, next time you’re craving the taste of fresh, homemade bread, give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends!
FAQ:
Q: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe. However, the texture may vary, and additional adjustments, like adding xanthan gum, may be necessary to achieve the right dough consistency.
Q: Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! While fresh rosemary offers the best flavor, you can substitute dried rosemary in this recipe. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary in place of the fresh.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, pop slices in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Q: Can I add other herbs or toppings?
A: Yes! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil. You can also top the bread with cheese or seeds for added flavor and texture.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!