Imagine the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, transporting you to an Italian trattoria with every bite. Our Macaroni Grill Rosemary Bread is not just any bread; it's a delightful fusion of fragrant rosemary and hearty whole wheat that will elevate your meals to a whole new level. Whether you're serving it alongside a comforting pasta dish or enjoying it on its own with a drizzle of olive oil, this homemade loaf is sure to impress. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will have your guests begging for the recipe? Let’s dive into the art of bread-making!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, chopped fresh rosemary, salt, and sugar. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the dry ingredients along with the olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the mixture begins to come together into a dough.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it back to the floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the shaped loaf onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the loaf again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the dough has risen again, you can optionally make a few shallow slashes on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife for decoration and to allow for expansion during baking.
- Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade Macaroni Grill Rosemary Bread warm or at room temperature!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Rosemary: For the best flavor, use fresh rosemary instead of dried. It adds a vibrant aroma and taste that truly elevates the bread.
- Check Yeast Freshness: Always ensure your active dry yeast is fresh. If it doesn't foam when mixed with warm water, it may be expired, and your bread won't rise properly.
- Knead Thoroughly: Don’t rush the kneading process! Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. This develops the gluten, giving your bread the perfect texture.
- Warm Rising Spot: Find a warm, draft-free spot for the dough to rise. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl in the oven (turned off) with the light on to create a cozy environment for the yeast to work its magic.
- Don’t Skip the Slashes: Making shallow slashes on top of the loaf before baking not only adds a decorative touch but also allows the bread to expand properly in the oven.
- Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps set the crumb and keeps the texture from becoming gummy.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your rosemary bread warm, perhaps with a side of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for dipping. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
