This Homemade Bread Will Steal Your Heart (and Maybe Outshine Pizza!): A Scrumptious Recipe from Germany
Forget pizza for a moment (yes, you heard that right!), because this heavenly homemade bread from my dear German friend might just become your new obsession. It’s warm, fluffy, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect meatless lunch for busy days or a delightful addition to any dinner table.
What makes this bread so special? The secret lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients and the unique flavor combination inspired by German cuisine. Imagine the warm aroma of fresh bread wafting through your kitchen, infused with the subtle sweetness of garlic and the aromatic touch of fresh herbs. Each bite is a textural delight, with a soft, airy crumb that gives way to a satisfying chew. Don’t believe me? Let’s bake it together and see for yourself!
Ingredients
- 450 grams all-purpose flour
- 20 grams instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons flour, for activating the yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 250 milliliters warm water
- 100 milliliters olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil, chopped (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (to taste)
- Black olives, sliced (optional)
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of flour and the sugar. Add the yeast and 1/4 cup of the warm water. Stir until dissolved and let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining flour and salt. - Make the dough: Add the activated yeast mixture and the remaining warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until doubled in size.
- Flavor time: Add the olive oil, minced garlic, and half of the chopped herbs to the dough. Knead briefly to incorporate them evenly.
- Shape and second rise: Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet. Cover it again and let it rise for another 20 minutes.
- Top it off: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Gently brush the top of the bread with olive oil and sprinkle with the remaining chopped herbs, black olives (if using), and mozzarella cheese (if using).
- Bake to perfection: Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Enjoy! Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour.
- Get creative with the toppings! Try sundried tomatoes, roasted peppers, or even a sprinkle of your favorite cheese.
- This bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with soup, salad, or even your favorite dip.
So there you have it! This simple yet delicious bread is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and let me know what you think! And who knows, maybe it will even tempt you to put pizza on hold for a while…
