Rustic Herbed French Bread

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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Rustic Herbed French Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing aromatic herbs into every bite. This recipe offers a satisfying crunch with a soft, flavorful interior, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Rustic Herbed French Bread

Flour is our main structure, giving the bread its body. Use all-purpose for its versatility. Warm water activates the yeast, creating the rise and texture. Active dry yeast is the magic behind the bread's rise and airiness. Salt enhances flavor and controls yeast activity. Olive oil adds moisture and a hint of richness. The herbs — thyme, rosemary, and oregano — infuse the bread with a savory aroma that's simply irresistible.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your kitchen is cold, let the dough rise in the oven with just the light on.
  • For a crispier crust, place a small pan of water in the oven while baking.
  • Make sure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast won't rise well.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs if you have them on hand!

Serving Suggestions

This bread pairs beautifully with a hearty soup or a fresh salad. Try serving it alongside a cheese platter for gatherings, or use it to make a scrumptious sandwich with roasted vegetables and goat cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Just remember that instant yeast doesn't need to be dissolved in water before using.
Can I freeze the bread?
Absolutely! Once the bread is completely cool, wrap it tightly and freeze. It’ll keep for up to three months.

Rustic Herbed French Bread Recipe Walkthrough

Start by dissolving the yeast in a bowl with the warm water. This should take about five minutes, and you’ll see a foamy layer form on top if the yeast is alive and kicking. Next, stir in the olive oil, salt, and your choice of dried herbs. Give it a good mix to ensure everything's evenly distributed.

Gradually add the flour to your wet ingredients, stirring until the dough begins to pull together. It’s going to be a bit sticky, but that’s okay. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about ten minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot. In about an hour, it should double in size, which is always a satisfying sight. Punch down the dough to release excess air, then divide it into two equal parts.

Shape each piece into a loaf. You can go for a traditional baguette shape or something more rustic — it’s your call. Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet, cover them again, and let them rise for another 30 minutes. While they’re rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let them cool on a wire rack before slicing in, if you can resist the temptation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Infused with aromatic herbs that elevate the humble loaf.
  • Simple ingredients that likely live in your pantry already.
  • No special equipment required — just your hands and an oven.
  • Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
  • Impressively delicious with minimal effort.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups warm water
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp dried oregano

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and herbs to the yeast mixture and mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring as you go, until the dough begins to come together.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough, divide it into two pieces, and shape each piece into a loaf.
7. Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
9. Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

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