Rustic Herb-Infused Baguette 🥖✨

New Recipe: Rustic Herb-Infused Baguette 🥖✨

Ingredients:

• For the dough:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)

• For the herb infusion:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the herb infusion:

   • In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat. Add dried rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. Make the dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Gradually add warm water and the cooled herb-infused olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.

3. Knead the dough:

   • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.

4. First rise:

   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the baguettes:

   • Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a long baguette shape, about 12-14 inches in length.

6. Second rise:

   • Place the shaped baguettes on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a baguette pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

7. Score the baguettes:

   • Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Using a sharp knife or lame, score the baguettes with 3-4 diagonal slashes about ¼ inch deep.

8. Bake:

   • Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam. Bake the baguettes for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

9. Cool and serve:

   • Let the baguettes cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, cheese, or your favorite spread.

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Optional Variations:

• Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the dough for a more intense flavor.
• Sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt or grated Parmesan before baking.
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or black olives for a Mediterranean twist.