When you think of artisanal bread, what often comes to mind is the warm, comforting aroma that fills the kitchen as the bread bakes to golden perfection. Olive and Rosemary Artisan French Bread brings together the timeless techniques of traditional French baking with the vibrant, earthy flavors of the Mediterranean. This bread is more than just a side; it’s an experience, a celebration of flavors that can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
Imagine biting into a slice where the crust is perfectly crisp, giving way to a soft and airy crumb. As you chew, the briny richness of olives meets the subtle, aromatic notes of fresh rosemary, all harmoniously embedded in a rustic loaf. Whether you’re dipping it into a rich bowl of soup, serving it alongside a cheese platter, or simply enjoying it with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, this bread stands as a testament to the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together in a masterful way.
Ingredients:
- Bread Flour: 3 ½ cups
- Active Dry Yeast: 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp)
- Warm Water: 1 ½ cups (about 110°F)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Olives: 1 cup, pitted and roughly chopped (use Kalamata or green olives)
- Fresh Rosemary: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Preparation:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
-
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
-
- Add bread flour, salt, chopped rosemary, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
-
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the Olives
-
- Gently knead the chopped olives into the dough until evenly distributed. Shape the dough into a ball.
Step 5: First Rise
-
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Loaf
Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
-
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. If you have a baking stone, place it in the oven to heat up. Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam, which helps create a crusty exterior.
Step 8: Score and Bake
-
- Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife, making shallow slashes. This helps control the expansion of the dough as it bakes. Place the bread in the oven (on the baking stone if using) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 9: Cool the Bread
-
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
COOKING Note:
-
Olive Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of olives. Kalamata olives bring a deep, briny flavor, while green olives add a milder taste. You can even mix them for a more complex flavor profile.
-
Adding Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a few minced garlic cloves into the dough along with the olives and rosemary.
Serving Suggestions:
-
Classic Pairing with Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar:
- Serve the freshly baked bread with a side of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar for dipping. The bread’s crusty exterior and soft interior soak up the oils and vinegar beautifully, making for a simple yet flavorful appetizer or snack.
-
Accompaniment to a Cheese Platter:
- Slice the bread thinly and serve it alongside a selection of cheeses, such as brie, goat cheese, or aged cheddar. The bread’s rosemary and olive notes complement a variety of cheeses, offering a balanced and aromatic base.
-
Side for Soups and Stews:
- Use this bread to accompany hearty soups or stews, such as a creamy tomato soup or a rich beef stew. The robust flavors of olives and rosemary add depth to the meal, and the bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover broth.
-
Open-Faced Sandwiches:
- Transform this artisan bread into the base for open-faced sandwiches. Top with ingredients like avocado, smoked salmon, or roasted vegetables. The sturdy crust holds up well under various toppings, and the herbaceous flavor adds a gourmet touch.
-
Toasted with Garlic Butter:
- Toast slices of the bread and spread them with garlic butter for an irresistible snack or side dish. The garlic butter enhances the existing flavors of the bread, making each bite a burst of savory goodness.
-
Breakfast with a Twist:
- Use the bread as a base for breakfast dishes like avocado toast or poached eggs. The savory elements of the bread contrast nicely with the richness of eggs or the creaminess of avocado, creating a satisfying start to your day.
-
Pairing with Wine:
- For a more elegant serving suggestion, pair this bread with a crisp white wine or a light red wine. The bread’s flavors match well with the acidity and fruitiness of these wines, making it a perfect addition to any wine and cheese night.
-
Bruschetta Topping:
- Turn this artisan bread into a base for bruschetta by topping it with diced tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. The combination of fresh toppings with the rustic bread creates a delicious and visually appealing dish.
Tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients, especially the yeast and water, are at the correct temperature to ensure proper activation of the yeast.
- Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, which is essential for a good structure in your bread.
- Storage: Store leftover bread in a bread bag or wrap it in a clean cloth to maintain the crust. It can be reheated in the oven to refresh the crispiness.
- Freezing: This bread freezes well. Slice it first, then freeze it wrapped in foil. When ready to eat, pop it into the oven to warm through.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 3 hours (including rising time)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 180 per slice
- Protein: 4g per slice
- Sodium: 230mg per slice
variations for Olive and Rosemary Artisan French Bread
-
Whole Wheat Olive and Rosemary Bread:
- Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to create a heartier, more nutritious loaf. Whole wheat flour adds a rich, nutty flavor and pairs wonderfully with the savory olives and aromatic rosemary.
-
Cheesy Olive and Rosemary Bread:
- For an indulgent twist, incorporate shredded cheese into the dough. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan work well. Fold the cheese into the dough along with the olives and rosemary, creating pockets of melted goodness throughout the loaf.
-
Gluten-Free Olive and Rosemary Bread:
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure the blend includes a binder like xanthan gum to maintain the bread’s structure.
-
Herb and Olive French Bread:
- Experiment with different herbs in addition to or instead of rosemary. Thyme, oregano, or basil can add different flavor profiles to the bread, making it uniquely your own.
-
Kalamata Olive and Rosemary Bread:
- Use Kalamata olives instead of regular black or green olives for a stronger, tangier flavor. Kalamata olives have a distinct taste that complements the rosemary and adds a Mediterranean flair to the bread.
-
Spicy Olive and Rosemary Bread:
- Add a kick to your bread by incorporating a small amount of red pepper flakes into the dough. The subtle heat pairs surprisingly well with the briny olives and fragrant rosemary.
-
Olive and Rosemary Sourdough:
- For a sourdough variation, use a sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast. This method adds a tangy flavor to the bread, and the slow fermentation process enhances the depth of the flavors.
-
Stuffed Olive and Rosemary Bread:
- Take this bread to the next level by stuffing it with additional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, or roasted garlic. This creates a more complex flavor and makes the bread a delicious stand-alone snack.
-
Mini Olive and Rosemary Rolls:
- Instead of making a large loaf, divide the dough into smaller portions to create individual rolls. These are perfect for serving at dinner parties or as an accompaniment to soups and salads.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
A1: Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but bread flour is recommended for its higher protein content, which gives the bread a better texture.
Q2: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
A2: Yes, you can use a gluten-free bread flour mix. Keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different.
Q3: How do I store this bread?
A3: Store the bread in a bread bag or wrapped in a cloth at room temperature. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze the dough?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
Q5: What can I substitute for fresh rosemary?
A5: You can use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary in place of fresh. Alternatively, thyme or oregano work well too.
Conclusion
n the world of baking, few things are as satisfying as pulling a perfectly golden loaf of bread from the oven, knowing that it’s the product of simple ingredients, careful preparation, and a bit of patience. Olive and Rosemary Artisan French Bread is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings together the rustic charm of French baking with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. This bread, with its crisp crust and soft, flavorful interior, is a testament to the art of bread-making, offering both a culinary delight and a sense of accomplishment.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just starting on their bread-making journey, this recipe is accessible yet impressive. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the nuance of a well-made loaf, where each bite reveals layers of flavor from the olives and rosemary, all wrapped in the comforting embrace of a perfectly baked bread.
This artisan bread is more than just an accompaniment to a meal; it’s a versatile and flavorful centerpiece that can elevate any dish. Whether served alongside a hearty stew, paired with fine cheeses, or simply enjoyed on its own with a spread of butter, this bread adds a touch of elegance and depth to any culinary experience.