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Herb Olive Bread

Herb Olive Bread
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Herb Olive Bread is a savory, fragrant loaf infused with fresh herbs and juicy olives. This soft bread boasts a perfect balance of aromatic herbs and briny olives, complemented by a slightly chewy crust. Ideal for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying with cheese, it’s a rewarding baking experience for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (105°F to 110°F)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Add-ins

  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano), finely chopped
  • 1 cup black or green olives, pitted and chopped

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Dissolve 2 teaspoons active dry yeast in 1 ¼ cups warm water (105°F to 110°F). Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy to ensure the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons salt, and 2 tablespoons freshly chopped herbs. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, developing the gluten structure for a chewy texture.
  4. Fold in the Olives: Gently knead 1 cup of chopped olives into the dough, distributing them evenly without crushing.
  5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  6. Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough, shape into a round or oval loaf, place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover again, and let it rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour until puffy.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the loaf for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Cool on a wire rack to maintain crispness.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs for the best aroma and flavor.
  • Don’t add too many olives to avoid weighing down the dough.
  • Ensure water is warm, not hot, to properly activate yeast.
  • Knead well for the characteristic chewy texture.
  • Consider using a preheated baking stone for a crispier crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: Herb Olive Bread, savory bread, herb bread, olive bread, homemade bread, Mediterranean bread, baking bread

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/herb-olive-bread/