Garlic Loaf
Ingredients:
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For the dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
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For the garlic butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1–2 hours in a warm place until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Garlic Loaf
- Shape the loaf: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12x8 inches). Brush the garlic butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and cut: Roll the dough tightly like a jelly roll, starting from the longer side. Pinch the seam to seal. Place the loaf on a greased baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
- Second rise: Cover the loaf loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30–40 minutes.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Brush the top of the loaf with more garlic butter. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Let the garlic loaf cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade garlic loaf with soups, pasta, or as a snack!
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