Introduction
Bread has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years. Yet, even in our modern world filled with fast food and takeout, there’s something uniquely satisfying about baking your own bread at home. This particular recipe stands out because it doesn’t just rival pizza in taste – it surpasses it. The combination of fluffy dough, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese creates a culinary experience that’s both comforting and indulgent.
A Brief History of Bread Baking
Bread-making dates back to ancient civilizations. The Egyptians were among the first to perfect the art of baking bread with yeast, creating loaves that were more than just sustenance but a pleasure to eat. Fast forward to today, and bread continues to evolve, incorporating flavors and techniques from around the world. This recipe takes inspiration from classic Italian focaccia, combining it with the beloved flavors of pizza to create something truly special.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 450 g of flour
- 1/2 cube of fresh yeast (20 g)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 250 g of lukewarm water
For Coating:
- 100 ml of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 handful of fresh basil
- 1 handful of fresh parsley
Additional Toppings:
- Grated mozzarella or parmesan
- A few olives
Procedure
1. Activating the Yeast
To start, place half a cube of yeast in a bowl. Add half a teaspoon of sugar and pour 250 ml of lukewarm water. Add two tablespoons of flour and stir until all ingredients dissolve without lumps. Leave the dissolved yeast in a warm place for about 10 minutes until it activates and foams.
2. Creating the Dough
Measure and sift 450 g of flour, add a teaspoon of salt, and the activated yeast. Knead with a dough mixer until it becomes compact and separates from the bowl’s walls. If kneading by hand, mix until the flour is absorbed and continue until the dough is compact, smooth, and not too sticky. Shape into a ball, cover, and let it ferment in a warm, draft-free room for about half an hour or until doubled in volume.
3. Rolling and Preparing
Spread the risen dough on a floured surface and roll it out evenly. Transfer it to a piece of baking paper on a wide, shallow baking tray. Cut it into cubes.
4. Crafting the “Pesto”
Chop fresh basil and parsley, grate or squeeze garlic, and mix with 100 ml of olive oil. Spread the mixture across all the incisions, then brush the entire surface with a silicone brush.
5. Toppings and Baking
Sprinkle grated mozzarella, parmesan, or your preferred cheese along the cuts. Place a sliced olive on top of each cube and press gently. Optionally, sprinkle more mozzarella over the entire bread. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees for 20 minutes.
Detailed Steps for Perfect Bread
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
Yeast is a living organism that requires the right conditions to thrive. By dissolving it in lukewarm water with a bit of sugar, we create an environment that encourages the yeast to activate. The sugar acts as food for the yeast, helping it to grow and produce carbon dioxide, which will give our bread its airy texture. After about 10 minutes, the mixture should be frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Creating the Dough
Flour is the backbone of any bread. In this recipe, we use high-quality flour, which ensures a strong gluten network, providing structure to our bread. Sifting the flour helps to incorporate air, making the dough lighter. Adding salt at this stage not only enhances flavor but also strengthens the gluten structure. Kneading is crucial as it develops the gluten network, making the dough elastic and smooth.
Step 3: Rolling and Preparing
After the dough has doubled in size, it’s time to roll it out. This step is about shaping the dough and preparing it for the toppings. Rolling the dough on a floured surface prevents it from sticking and makes it easier to handle. Cutting the dough into cubes before baking ensures that each piece is perfectly coated with the herb and garlic mixture, allowing for even flavor distribution.
Step 4: Crafting the “Pesto”
The coating mixture is essentially a simple pesto. Fresh basil and parsley bring a burst of flavor and vibrant color, while garlic adds a rich, aromatic depth. Olive oil not only helps to bind these ingredients together but also adds a luxurious mouthfeel and keeps the bread moist.
Step 5: Toppings and Baking
Cheese is a key component that transforms this bread into something truly special. Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey, stringy texture, while parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor. Adding olives gives a salty, briny contrast that balances the richness of the cheese. Baking the bread at 180 degrees ensures it cooks evenly, developing a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it warm as an appetizer or snack, paired with a dipping sauce like marinara or a balsamic reduction. It also makes a great accompaniment to soups and salads. For a more substantial meal, top the bread with slices of tomato and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or add some prosciutto for a touch of sophistication.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and cheeses to suit your taste. Rosemary, thyme, or oregano would all work wonderfully in place of basil and parsley. Similarly, you can use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Baking bread at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to create something truly unique and delicious. This homemade bread, with its irresistible combination of herbs, garlic, and cheese, is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s not just a tasty alternative to pizza – it’s a new way to enjoy the flavors you love in a fresh, exciting form.