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Ultimate Tomato Basil Bread

A simple yet exquisite artisan Tomato Basil Bread, infused with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
  • 4 cups bread flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 0.25 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing)
  • 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained and chopped)
  • 0.5 cup fresh basil (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: Combine warm water, granulated sugar, and instant yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour and salt.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture into dry ingredients, add olive oil, and mix until it forms a shaggy dough.
  4. Knead the dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
  5. Add the fun stuff: Fold in sun-dried tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan.
  6. First rise: Form dough into a ball, place in a well-oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  7. Shape the loaf: Punch down the dough, knead slightly, and shape into a loaf or round boule.
  8. Second rise: Place shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
  9. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and brush dough with olive oil.
  10. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  11. Cool and enjoy: Allow to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and activated correctly. Feel free to experiment with variations like adding cheese or herbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: bread, tomato, basil, artisan, baking, Italian, homemade