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Garlic Herb Dutch Oven Bread Recipe

4.9 from 56 reviews

This Garlic Herb Dutch Oven Bread is a rustic, flavorful homemade loaf infused with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs. Using a simple mix of flour, yeast, and water, this no-knead bread develops a perfect crust and tender crumb through a slow overnight rise and baking in a preheated Dutch oven, creating a bakery-quality loaf perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and instant yeast thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm water, then add the minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs. Stir the mixture until a shaggy dough forms, making sure everything is well incorporated.
  3. First Rise: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. This slow fermentation develops flavor and a light, airy texture.
  4. Preheat Oven and Dutch Oven: After the long rest, place a clean Dutch oven with its lid in your oven and preheat it to 450°F (230°C). This ensures the pot is hot enough to create steam and bake the bread properly.
  5. Prepare Dutch Oven: Carefully remove the heated Dutch oven from the oven, and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the bottom to lightly grease it.
  6. Shape Dough: Transfer the risen dough onto a well-floured surface. Shape it gently into a smooth ball without deflating it too much to maintain air pockets.
  7. Bake Covered: Place the dough ball into the hot Dutch oven and cover it with the lid. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes to allow the bread to steam and rise fully.
  8. Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid and continue baking the bread for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and crisp.

Notes

  • Use warm water around 100-110°F to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Resting the dough overnight allows for better gluten development and flavor.
  • Be very careful when handling the hot Dutch oven to avoid burns.
  • Add your choice of fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to customize the flavor.
  • Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to finish the baking process internally.

Keywords: Garlic Herb Bread, Dutch Oven Bread, No-Knead Bread, Homemade Bread, Rustic Bread, Artisan Bread