Herb Bread (No-Knead)

Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked bread, infused with the vibrant flavors of garlic and herbs. This Herb Bread (No-Knead) recipe is not only effortless but also incredibly rewarding. Perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter, this bread will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive into why this simple yet flavorful bread deserves a spot in your kitchen!

Why It Deserves a Spot

There’s something magical about homemade bread, especially when it requires no kneading. The beauty of this Herb Bread (No-Knead) lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor that comes from fresh herbs and garlic. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can produce a rustic loaf that’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or can be savored on its own. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen!

What We’re Using

To create this delightful Herb Bread (No-Knead), gather the following ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons instant yeast – This helps the bread rise without much waiting time.
• 2 teaspoons honey – A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 1-1/2 cups warm water – Essential for activating the yeast. Ensure it’s not too hot!
• 3 cups flour – All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe.
• 1-3/4 teaspoons salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic – For that irresistible garlicky aroma.
• 1-1/2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried – Adds a fragrant, earthy flavor.
• 1-1/2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried – Complements the rosemary beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper (optional) – A hint of spice, if desired.
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon olive oil (divided) – For flavor and a crispy crust.
• Butter (optional, for serving) – A classic accompaniment.
• Flaky sea salt (optional, for serving) – To sprinkle on top for added texture.

Essential Tools for Success

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large mixing bowl – For combining the dough.
• Wooden spoon – To mix the ingredients together.
• Plastic wrap or a kitchen towel – To cover the dough while it rises.
• Baking sheet or Dutch oven – For baking the bread.
• Cooling rack – To allow the bread to cool properly after baking.

Herb Bread (No-Knead) Cooking Guide

Follow these simple steps to create your own Herb Bread (No-Knead):

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and honey. Stir until the honey is dissolved. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In the same bowl, add the flour, salt, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and pepper (if using). Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Let it Rise

Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the dough, gently folding it to incorporate. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, lightly flour a clean countertop. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. It doesn’t need to be perfect—rustic is the goal!

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it in the oven to preheat as well.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

If using a baking sheet, drizzle the remaining olive oil on top of the dough and sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

If using a Dutch oven, carefully remove it from the oven, place the dough inside (you can score the top for a decorative touch), cover it, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm with butter or as a side to your favorite dish!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking to make this Herb Bread (No-Knead) suitable for a vegan diet, consider these swaps:

• Replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
• Omit butter for serving and use a vegan spread instead.

Avoid These Mistakes

When making Herb Bread (No-Knead), keep these tips in mind to ensure success:

• Don’t rush the rising process. Allow the dough to fully double in size for the best texture.
• Ensure your water is warm, not hot, to prevent killing the yeast.
• Be careful not to over-knead or overwork the dough; it should remain somewhat shaggy.
• Monitor your oven temperature, as baking times can vary based on your specific oven.

Make-Ahead & Storage

For those busy days, you can make the dough ahead of time:

• Prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and proceed with the second rise and baking.
• Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Just slice before freezing for easy thawing!

Ask the Chef

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. You might want to mix it with some all-purpose flour for a lighter loaf.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used instead; just use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

How can I enhance the flavor of my bread?

Consider adding grated cheese, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough for extra flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to serve this bread?

This bread is delightful on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dip.

Serve with These

To complement your Herb Bread (No-Knead), try pairing it with:

• Creamy Tomato Soup
• Mixed Greens Salad
• Herb-Infused Olive Oil
• Roasted Vegetable Soup

See You at the Table

This Herb Bread (No-Knead) is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and create memories. The simplicity of making bread at home allows you to savor the joy of baking while enjoying the delicious results. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this bread will surely be the star of the meal. Happy baking!