Why You’ll Love This Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread Recipe
If you’re a bread lover like me, you’ll absolutely adore this Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread recipe.
The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. Each bite combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the rich, savory notes of garlic and Parmesan.
It’s perfect for dipping into soups or enjoying with a spread of butter. Plus, this recipe’s straightforward process makes it accessible for everyone, whether you’re a novice or a pro.
Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it over and over again. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients of Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread
When it comes to baking bread, the right ingredients can make all the difference, and the Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread is no exception. This delightful recipe relies on a few simple yet flavorful components that come together to create a loaf bursting with taste.
If you’re ready to commence this baking adventure, here’s what you’ll need to gather from your pantry and fridge.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups sourdough starter
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 4 cups bread flour
- ⅔ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
Now, before you plunge into the mixing bowl, let’s chat about some of these ingredients. The sourdough starter is essential, as it’s the magic behind that tangy flavor we all love.
Remember, it needs to be proofed overnight or at least 12 hours ahead of time, so plan accordingly. And if you’re pondering the garlic situation, fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor, but if you’re feeling fancy, roasted garlic can add a sweeter, milder taste—just be ready to use a bit more of it.
Also, don’t skimp on the Parmesan; it’s the star of the show, after all. Each ingredient plays its part in making this bread not just good, but unforgettable.
How to Make Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread
Making Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread is a delightful journey, and I promise it’s worth every minute. First things first, you need to make sure your 1 ½ cups of sourdough starter is nice and bubbly. This means you should have it proofed overnight or at least 12 hours ahead of time. Patience is key here—like waiting for a pizza delivery when you’re starving.
Once your starter is ready to go, it’s time to gather the rest of your ingredients. You’ll need ½ cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of cooking oil, and 1 tablespoon of honey. These ingredients are going to help create a soft, flavorful dough that you’ll be proud to show off.
Now, let’s get mixing. Add the ingredients to your bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer. I know this sounds a bit technical, but trust me, it’s not rocket science—just follow the rules like a good student. You’ll toss in those 4 cups of bread flour, ⅔ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Then, hit that Dough cycle button and let the machine do its magic. While it’s kneading, you can daydream about the warm, crusty loaf that will soon emerge from your oven. When the machine finishes kneading, carefully remove the dough before it heads into the rise. Shape it into a loaf or two—whatever floats your boat. Cover it up and let it rise until it’s double in size. You might find yourself doing a little happy dance during this wait; it’s okay, we all do it.
Once your dough has risen beautifully, it’s time for a special touch. Grab 1 egg white and beat it up with 1 tablespoon of water for an egg wash. Brush that golden goodness over the top of your loaf, and don’t be shy with it; this is where your loaf gets its shiny, inviting look. A sprinkle of more Parmesan on top can really make it shine—who doesn’t love a little extra cheese?
Finally, pop your bread into the oven preheated to 375 degrees F and bake for about 30 to 45 minutes. The smell wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a professional baker, even if you’ve burned toast before. So, kick back and relax while your bread transforms into a golden-brown masterpiece. Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a delicious loaf of Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread to share—or not. No judgment here if you want to keep it all to yourself.
Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread Substitutions & Variations
Sometimes, it’s fun to get creative with your Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread recipe. You can swap out the Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar or feta for a different flavor twist.
If you prefer a kick, add some red pepper flakes or herbs like rosemary or thyme. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
Want a sweeter touch? Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives. You could even experiment with different flours, like whole wheat or spelt, to add depth and texture to your bread.
Enjoy your baking adventure!
Additional Tips & Notes
Exploring variations in your Garlic and Parmesan Sourdough Bread can lead to delightful surprises, but a few additional tips can elevate your baking experience even more.
Don’t rush the proofing; letting your sourdough starter sit overnight truly enhances the flavor. When shaping your loaves, experiment with different forms for unique textures.
If you’re using roasted garlic, remember to adjust the amount for a milder taste. After baking, let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.
Finally, consider pairing this bread with olive oil or a nice balsamic vinegar for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Happy baking!