Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of making artisan bread during my culinary training in Italy. The fragrant aroma of fresh rosemary inspired me to create this bread recipe. Over the years, I’ve perfected it to achieve a perfect crust and a soft, flavorful interior. This recipe represents my love for Mediterranean flavors and the art of bread-making."

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, I specialize in creating delicious and authentic snack recipes. My culinary journey has taken me through various regions, allowing me to develop a deep understanding of flavors and techniques. I enjoy sharing my passion for cooking through approachable recipes that anyone can master.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread served on a plate

Why This Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread Recipe Works

This Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread recipe stands out due to its use of fresh rosemary, which adds a fragrant and savory depth of flavor. The combination of herbs and spices gives the bread a unique character that pairs well with various dishes. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Each bite is a perfect balance of crunchy crust and soft, airy interior.

The technique of allowing the dough to rise not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the overall texture. Using instant yeast accelerates the process, making it easier for home bakers to achieve great results. This bread is versatile, perfect as a snack on its own or as an accompaniment to soups and salads.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, use high-quality olive oil and fresh rosemary. Letting the dough rise in a warm place helps it develop flavor and texture. If you have a baking stone, preheat it in the oven to create a crispy crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking. You can also bake the bread in advance and store it at room temperature for a couple of days or freeze it for longer storage.

If you don’t have fresh rosemary, dried rosemary can be used, but reduce the quantity to about one tablespoon as dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano to create a different flavor profile.

The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a food thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).

Yes, you can freeze the bread after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw it at room temperature before reheating.

This bread is fantastic served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It also pairs well with soups, stews, or as a side to a cheese platter. Additionally, consider serving it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

If stored properly in an airtight container, Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. However, for the best taste and texture, it is recommended to consume it within the first couple of days.

Yes, the dough can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavor as it allows the dough to ferment longer. Just ensure to bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

To reheat the bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap the bread in aluminum foil. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain its crusty exterior and soft interior.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the bread turns out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough water in the dough.

Solution: Make sure to measure your flour accurately and check the bread regularly during baking. Adding a little more water to the dough can help achieve the right consistency.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the crust isn't crispy, it could be due to insufficient baking time or a lack of steam in the oven.

Solution: Try baking it a little longer and place a pan of water in the oven to create steam, which helps develop a crispy crust.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the bread is overcooked, it can become too hard and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes of baking and use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the bread is doughy, it means it wasn't baked long enough.

Recovery: Return the bread to the oven and bake for a few more minutes, checking for doneness regularly.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior is burnt, the temperature may be too high or it may have been baked too long.

Prevention: Lower the oven temperature slightly and check the bread earlier in the baking process.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bread is too sweet, reduce the amount of sugar next time. Consider adjusting the salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the bread is too salty, try using less salt in the dough next time and ensure that your ingredients don't contain added salt.

Bland: If the bread is bland, enhance the flavor by adding more herbs or spices into the dough.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread

Essential Ingredients for Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread

The key ingredients for this bread include high-quality all-purpose flour, fresh rosemary, and instant yeast. Each plays a critical role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The fresh rosemary provides a fragrant aroma and savory taste, while the yeast helps the dough rise to create a light and airy bread.

Using fresh ingredients will enhance the overall quality of your bread. Opt for organic flour when possible and ensure that your yeast is fresh to achieve the best results. The care you take in selecting your ingredients directly impacts the final product.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • All-Purpose Flour: Using all-purpose flour provides the right balance of protein for structure while remaining soft. Avoid using whole wheat flour as it can change the texture of the bread.
  • Fresh Rosemary: Fresh rosemary is essential for the best flavor. If substituting with dried, remember to use a lesser amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
  • Instant Yeast: Instant yeast is preferred for this recipe because it works quickly and doesn’t require proofing in warm water, allowing for faster preparation.
Cooking process for Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Start by mixing your dry ingredients and then incorporate your wet ingredients to form a dough. The key is to knead it well to develop the gluten, which gives the bread structure.

As the bread bakes, the steam created within the dough helps achieve a beautiful crust. By following the rising and baking times carefully, you’ll produce a loaf that is both flavorful and satisfying.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread

The most important technique for this bread is allowing it to rise properly. The longer the dough rises, the more flavor it develops. Make sure to keep it covered in a warm environment to foster yeast activity.

Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon garlic
    Minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    For the bread
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
    Temperature: 110°F
  • 2 teaspoons salt
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
    To feed the yeast
  • 1 packet instant yeast
    (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
    Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For moisture
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For additional flavor

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, garlic powder, black pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes.

  2. Add Wet Ingredients

    Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

  3. Add Rosemary

    Gently fold in the chopped rosemary until evenly distributed.

  4. Knead the Dough

    Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until smooth.

  5. Let it Rise

    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  6. Shape the Dough

    Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf.

  7. Prepare for Baking

    Place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and let it rest for 15 minutes.

  8. Bake the Bread

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread, let it cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. Store it at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Savory Rosemary Artisan Bread with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with antipasto platters, soups, or salads for a Mediterranean-themed meal.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this bread by adding other herbs like thyme or oregano, or by incorporating cheese such as feta or Parmesan for added flavor. You can also experiment with different types of flour for unique textures.