Baguettes with basil

Baguettes with basil and telemea

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 8 baguettes

I propose a delicious recipe for baguettes with basil and telemea, perfect for adding a touch of magic to your meals. These baguettes are ideal to be served as an appetizer, accompanied by olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or as a side dish to various main courses. The rich taste of telemea harmonizes beautifully with the fresh aroma of basil, giving them a unique character. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:
- 600 g flour
- 200 g telemea (preferably goat cheese)
- 200 ml warm water
- 30 g fresh yeast
- 25 g butter (melted)
- 1 bunch of fresh basil (about 30 g)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- A few green or black olives (optional, chopped)

Preparation:

1. Activating the yeast: In a large bowl, add 200 ml of warm water. Make sure the water is not hot, as excessive heat will kill the yeast. Dissolve 30 g of fresh yeast in the water, along with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Mix gently until the yeast is completely dissolved.

2. Preparing the dough: Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well and let it rise for 10 minutes. You will notice that the mixture will start to bubble, indicating that the yeast is active.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In another bowl, sift 600 g of flour. Make a well in the center and pour in the risen yeast mixture. Add 25 g of melted butter and finely chopped basil leaves. If you choose to use olives, now is the time to add them.

4. Kneading the dough: Start mixing the ingredients with a spatula, then switch to kneading by hand. Knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes elastic and smooth. The more you knead, the fluffier the baguettes will be.

5. Rising the dough: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

6. Shaping the baguettes: Once the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on a work surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts. Shape each piece into a baguette, taking care to give them an elongated shape.

7. Preparing for baking: Place the baguettes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 20 minutes.

8. Baking the baguettes: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Before placing them in the oven, brush each baguette with beaten egg for a golden and shiny crust. Bake the baguettes for 25-30 minutes, until they turn golden and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

9. Serving the baguettes: Once the baguettes are baked, let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Served warm, they are delicious alongside a garlic yogurt dip or simply with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Personal suggestion: You can experiment with various herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, instead of basil, or you can sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top of the baguettes before baking for added texture and flavor.

These baguettes with basil and telemea will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy them warm, freshly out of the oven, and savor every bite!