Roasted Garlic and Herb Tear-and-Share Loaf

• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 6 roasted garlic cloves, mashed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Steps

1. 1 In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2 Mix in olive oil, flour, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and roasted garlic until a dough forms.
3. 3 Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4 Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
5. 5 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. 6 Shape dough into a loaf, place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and let rise another 15 minutes.
7. 7 Brush the top with beaten egg.
8. 8 Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. 9 Cool slightly before tearing and serving.

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Variations

• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
• Incorporate olives for an Italian flair.

Substitutions

• Substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.

Pairings

• Hearty vegetable soup
• Classic Italian antipasto

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, brush the loaf with olive oil immediately after baking.
• Customize with additional herbs like oregano or basil to your liking.

Storage

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect with soups or stews.
• Serve alongside a platter of cured meats and cheeses.

FAQ