Bread with dried parsley

Bread with Dried Parsley: A Home Aroma

Bread is a fundamental food in many cultures around the world, with a history spanning thousands of years. This dried parsley bread recipe combines tradition with a fresh, aromatic taste, transforming a simple ingredient into a delicacy that can delight any table. Whether you serve it alongside a warm soup, as a side for a main dish, or simply with a touch of butter, this type of bread will bring warmth and comfort to every corner of your home.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients:
- 230 ml warm water
- 390 g wheat flour (ideally, use flour with a medium gluten content)
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive oil for a more pronounced flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 tablespoons dried parsley (or more if you like intense flavors)

Preparation with Bread Machine:

1. Loading the Machine: Start by adding 230 ml of warm water, 2 tablespoons of oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the bread machine's pan. It is important to follow this order to avoid direct contact of the yeast with the salt, which can inhibit its ability to rise.

2. Adding the Flour: Over the liquids, add 390 g of wheat flour. Make sure it is evenly distributed. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar on the edge of the flour to help activate the yeast.

3. The Yeast: In the center of the flour, create a small well and add 1 teaspoon of dry yeast. This step is essential to allow the yeast to activate properly.

4. Preparation Program: Start the machine on the basic program (program 1). This will begin the kneading process.

5. Adding the Parsley: When the machine emits a beeping sound, quickly open the lid and add the dried parsley. Close the lid and let the machine continue the program until the end.

6. Cooling the Bread: Once the bread is baked, let it cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then carefully remove it and wrap it in a damp towel to retain moisture.

Manual Preparation:

1. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and sugar. Gradually add 230 ml of warm water and the 2 tablespoons of oil, mixing with a spatula until you achieve a uniform and smooth dough.

2. Letting the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough doubles in volume.

3. Incorporating the Parsley: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and add the dried parsley. Knead the dough gently for a few minutes to incorporate the parsley well.

4. Shaping and Rising: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a bread pan. Cover it again with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

5. Baking the Bread: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and sounds hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.

6. Cooling and Serving: Remove the bread from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a rack. Wrap it in a damp towel for a softer texture.

Practical Tips:
- *Choose Ingredients Carefully*: Use fresh flour and active yeast for the best results. Whole wheat flour can be a healthy alternative, but it will change the texture.
- *Temperature Control*: The water should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without destroying it.
- *Flavor Variations*: You can also add other dried herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, for a different taste.
- *Serving*: This bread pairs wonderfully with fresh cheese, flavored butter, or as an accompaniment to a creamy vegetable soup.

Nutritional Benefits:
Dried parsley bread is not only delicious but also healthy. Parsley is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Making bread at home allows you to control the ingredients, reducing additives and preservatives.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- *What if I don’t have a bread machine?* You can prepare the dough manually by following the steps mentioned in the manual preparation section.
- *How can I tell if the bread is baked?* The bread is done when it turns golden on the outside and produces a hollow sound when tapped lightly on the bottom.
- *Can I freeze the bread?* Yes! The bread can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well to avoid drying out.

Delicious Combinations:
This dried parsley bread pairs perfectly with a warm soup, a fresh salad, or simply with flavored butter. I recommend enjoying it alongside a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a truly memorable meal.

Dried parsley bread is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that will bring joy in every bite. I invite you to try this recipe and share the result with your loved ones!