Savory Herb Bread

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 35 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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If you've ever wanted to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread combined with the earthy scent of herbs, this Savory Herb Bread is just for you. With a perfectly chewy texture and bursts of herbaceous flavor, it's the kind of bread that makes any meal feel special.

Ingredients for Savory Herb Bread

The base of our bread is all-purpose flour, which provides structure and a balanced texture. Use a quality flour for the best results. Salt enhances the flavors, while a touch of sugar helps activate the yeast. Speaking of yeast, active dry yeast is key for making the dough rise, giving the bread its light, airy texture.

Warm water at just the right temperature (110°F) helps activate the yeast without killing it. Olive oil adds moisture and a subtle flavor, creating a tender crumb. The standout flavors come from fresh savory and mixed herbs like rosemary and thyme, adding aromatic depth. Finally, shredded cheese like cheddar or gruyère melts into the bread, adding richness and a slight tang.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your kitchen is cold, let the dough rise in the oven with just the light on for a warm environment.
  • Use a thermometer to ensure the water is the right temperature for the yeast.
  • Experiment with different herbs or combinations for a unique twist.
  • Grate your own cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.

Serving Suggestions

This bread pairs beautifully with creamy soups like tomato bisque or mushroom soup. It's also a great side for roasted chicken or beef. For breakfast, toast a slice and top with avocado and a poached egg for a savory start to your day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the amount to about 1/3 since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How can I store the bread?
Wrap it in foil and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What if I don't have a loaf pan?
You can shape the dough into a round and bake it on a baking sheet instead.

Savory Herb Bread Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment — a large mixing bowl, loaf pan, and a floured surface for kneading. In your bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a little well in the center, which will help when you add the wet ingredients.

In a small bowl or measuring cup, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s nice and foamy. Pour this yeast mixture and the olive oil into the well you created in the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until it forms a shaggy dough.

Transfer the dough to your floured surface. Now, it’s time to knead! Work the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This is a great arm workout and quite therapeutic.

Sprinkle in the chopped savory and mixed herbs, working them into the dough until evenly distributed. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This is when the magic happens.

While waiting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air. Knead in the shredded cheese, ensuring it’s evenly mixed throughout.

Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. It should look puffy and ready for the oven.

Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes. When it’s done, it should sound hollow when tapped. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. This is the hardest part — waiting!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Incredibly easy to make, even for beginners.
  • The perfect blend of herbs adds a gourmet touch.
  • Customizable with your favorite cheese or herbs.
  • Pairs well with a variety of dishes — from soups to salads.
  • Freezes well, so you can enjoy it anytime.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh savory, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or gruyère)
1/4 cup chopped mixed herbs (like rosemary and thyme)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center.
2. Dissolve the yeast in warm water, let it sit for 5 minutes, then add it to the flour mixture along with olive oil. Mix to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Incorporate the chopped savory and mixed herbs into the dough until evenly distributed.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and knead in the shredded cheese.
8. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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