Are you ready to elevate your bread game? Forget store-bought loaves – this fresh basil bread recipe is a game-changer! It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with vibrant basil flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is your ticket to homemade deliciousness. It's the perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, making it a go-to for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, creating a light and airy loaf.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in olive oil and salt.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it seems a little sticky at this stage; that's perfectly normal.
Step 4: Add the Basil: Gently fold in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese (if using). This step is where the magic really happens; the fragrant basil infuses the dough, making each bite a burst of summer flavor.
Step 5: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If you're unsure about kneading, just keep working the dough until it becomes less sticky and more pliable.
Step 6: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is crucial for creating a soft and fluffy texture.
Step 7: Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf.
Step 8: Second Rise: Place the shaped loaf in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, until almost doubled in size.
Step 9: Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a thermometer to ensure it's cooked through; this prevents any potential underbaking.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy: Remove from the pan and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Patience is key here! Allowing the bread to cool properly prevents a gummy texture.
Tips for the Best Basil Bread:
- Fresh Basil is Key: Use the freshest basil you can find for the best flavor.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough loaf.
- Check for Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the bread is fully baked.
- Cool Completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely on a wire rack will prevent a soggy bottom.
Variations:
- Garlic Basil Bread: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Bread: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Herb Bread: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, rosemary, or thyme.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 3-5g
This fresh basil bread is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a delicious dish, perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or enjoying alongside your favorite soup or salad. It's a truly satisfying and healthy meal option, easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences. Try it out and let us know what you think!