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A rustic loaf of homemade tomato basil bread cooling on a wooden cutting board, with fresh basil leaves scattered around.
FL Recipes

Tomato Basil Bread: A Rustic No-Fail Recipe

This rustic Tomato Basil Bread recipe is incredibly easy and packed with the fresh flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Create a perfect artisan loaf with a crisp crust and soft crumb.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups warm water about 110°F or 43°C
  • 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 standard packet
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 3.5 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes drained and finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup fresh basil chopped or chiffonade
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Baking Sheet
  • 1 Wire Cooling Rack

Method
 

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Combine Ingredients: To the yeast mixture, add the flour, salt, garlic powder, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and olive oil. Mix with a spatula until a cohesive, shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and springs back when poked.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Shape and Second Rise: Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
  7. Cool: Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This allows the crumb to set properly.

Nutrition

Calories: 185kcalProtein: 5gFat: 4gFiber: 2g

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the dough.
Ensure your sun-dried tomatoes are well-drained to avoid adding excess oil to the dough.
Let the bread cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing for the best texture.
Keyword artisan bread,homemade bread,savory bread,tomato basil bread

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