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Mediterranean Olive Oil Bread

The Mediterranean olive oil bread recipe emphasizes the use of high-quality olive oil, which enhances the flavor and texture of the bread. Olive oil, along with other staple ingredients like flour, yeast, and salt, creates a soft, pillowy bread with a crispy crust. The Mediterranean influence also allows for variations, such as adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano, giving the bread a fragrant, herby twist.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting/Rising Time (To allow the dough to rise and double in size, and then let it rise again after shaping): 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano or rosemary optional
  • Fresh herbs optional

Instructions
 

  • Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F) with sugar. Sprinkle in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
  • Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  • Add the Wet Ingredients: Once the yeast has activated, add the olive oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour and salt mixture, stirring to combine.
  • Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you want to add herbs, now is the time to fold them into the dough.
  • Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  • Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
  • Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread has a golden brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • Cool: Allow the bread to cool before slicing.

Notes

Don’t Overwork the Dough: Avoid over-kneading, which can result in dense bread. Knead just until smooth and elastic.
Allow Sufficient Rise Time: Give the dough enough time to rise, as this is crucial for light, airy bread.
Adjust Flour as Needed: Depending on your flour type or humidity, you might need to adjust the amount of flour to get the right dough consistency.

How Long to Bake Mediterranean Bread

Typically, Mediterranean olive oil bread bakes at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. The loaf should sound hollow when tapped and have a golden-brown crust.
Keyword Mediterranean Bread, Olive Oil Bread