Quick and Easy Crusty Herb Bread Recipe To Pair With Steak
Our crusty herb bread is a simple yet delicious side that pairs perfectly with steak. With a crispy crust and soft interior, it enhances any meal with its aromatic flavors.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a quick addition to your dinner table.
Overview of Crusty Herb Bread
This crusty herb bread is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The golden-brown crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the soft, fluffy interior invites you to take another slice.
Infused with aromatic herbs, this bread enhances the dining experience, making it an ideal companion for hearty dishes like steak. Its inviting aroma fills the kitchen, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Simple Ingredients for Success
The beauty of this herb bread lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a loaf that impresses family and friends alike. All-purpose flour serves as the base, while sugar and salt add essential flavor.
Dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano bring a burst of freshness to the bread. Instant yeast ensures a quick rise, making this recipe perfect for those who want freshly baked bread without the wait.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this crusty herb bread is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Start by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring an even distribution of flavors. The addition of warm water transforms the mixture into a shaggy dough.
Once the dough is formed, a brief kneading session helps develop its structure. After kneading, allow the dough to rise in a warm place, doubling in size and creating a light, airy texture.
Shaping and Baking
After the first rise, shaping the dough into a round loaf is the next step. This process not only gives the bread its characteristic form but also prepares it for the second rise. Cover the loaf and let it rest, allowing it to puff up even more.
Preheating the oven to a high temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crust. When baked, the bread turns golden brown and emits a delightful aroma, signaling that it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Serving Suggestions
Once the bread has cooled slightly, it’s time to slice and serve. The fluffy interior pairs beautifully with a pat of butter, melting into the warm bread. This combination is a simple yet satisfying treat.
For a more substantial meal, serve the bread alongside steak or other hearty dishes. Its texture and flavor complement a variety of cuisines, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing the bread properly ensures it stays fresh. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices for future enjoyment.
Reheating the bread in the oven can restore its crusty exterior, making it taste as good as freshly baked. Enjoying this herb bread days later is a delightful way to relive the experience of baking it.
Easy Crusty Herb Bread Recipe
This bread features a golden crust with a soft, fluffy inside, infused with fresh herbs. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and it bakes in just 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, dried herbs, and instant yeast.
- Add Water: Pour in the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Bake: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or alongside steak.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
