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Garlic Herb Dutch Oven Bread

Garlic Herb Dutch Oven Bread


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 round loaf 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Garlic Herb Dutch Oven Bread recipe delivers a warm, crusty, and flavorful homemade bread featuring fresh garlic and herbs. Baked in a Dutch oven, it ensures a crisp golden crust and tender, chewy crumb. Ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this recipe guides you step-by-step to artisan-quality bread with versatile herbal flavors that pair beautifully with a variety of dishes.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp natural gelling agent

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (natural)
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

Flavorings

  • 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced finely
  • 2 tbsp mixed fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley), chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Activate the Yeast: Start by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it foams. This step kickstarts the fermentation process that will give your bread rise and fluffiness.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, minced garlic, mixed fresh herbs, salt, and natural gelling agent. Slowly add the yeast mixture and olive oil (natural) while stirring until the dough begins to form.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Proper kneading develops gluten, which creates structure and chew in the bread.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size. This slow fermentation enhances flavor and texture.
  5. Shape the Dough: Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Sprinkle a clean kitchen towel with flour, place the dough seam side down, and cover it for the second rise, which takes about 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the Dutch Oven and Bake: Place your Dutch oven with the lid on into the oven, then preheat at 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes. Carefully transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven, score the top with a sharp knife, cover, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake another 15 minutes to achieve a crisp, golden crust.
  7. Cool on a Rack: Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely. Cooling prevents the bread from becoming soggy and lets the crumb set beautifully.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
  • Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Preheat the Dutch oven to trap steam and achieve a crunchy crust.
  • Score the dough to control expansion and add an artisanal touch.
  • Allow the dough to double in size fully for best texture and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 loaf)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: garlic bread, Dutch oven bread, homemade bread, herb bread, plant-based bread