Bread with seeds and rosemary

Seed and Rosemary Bread: A Recipe Full of Flavor and Health

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour (divided into two stages)
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Number of Servings: 8-10 slices

History and Inspiration

Bread has always been a symbol of hospitality and community, being a fundamental element in the diets of many cultures. This seed and rosemary bread recipe not only offers a crunchy texture and an inviting aroma, but it also combines the nutritional benefits of seeds with the freshness of rosemary. Sunflower and flax seeds are rich in protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids, while rosemary adds an aromatic note that transforms any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

- 400 g wheat flour (preferably type 650 for a softer texture)
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 220 ml warm water (approximately 37-40 degrees Celsius)
- 50 ml coconut oil (melted, but not hot)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fructose (or sugar, to taste)
- salt, to taste
- 1 handful of sunflower seeds
- 1 tablespoon flax seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed rosemary

Dough Preparation

1. Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl, adding a pinch of salt. It is important to use quality flour to achieve an elastic and fluffy dough.

2. In the center of the flour, make a well. Here, add the crumbled fresh yeast and fructose. Pour 100 ml of warm water over them. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the yeast activate for 10-15 minutes. You will know it is ready when bubbles appear on the surface – this is the sign that the yeast is doing its job!

3. In another container, combine the remaining warm water (120 ml) with the melted coconut oil. Mix well to integrate the two ingredients.

4. Once the yeast is activated, add the liquid mixture to the bowl with flour. Start kneading the dough with a spatula or your hands until it begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

Dough Rising

5. After the dough is well combined, cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes, or until it doubles in volume. You can place the bowl next to a radiator or in the oven preheated to 30 degrees Celsius.

6. After the first rise, knead the dough for 2-3 minutes to activate it. Add the sunflower seeds, flax seeds, rosemary, and olive oil, continuing to knead until the ingredients are well incorporated.

7. Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes, until it doubles in volume again.

Shaping the Bread

8. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Carefully shape it into a loaf (or a round bread, if you prefer). You can use a loaf pan to give it a nice shape.

9. Place the shaped bread in the prepared pan and make three shallow cuts on its surface. These cuts not only help with ventilation during baking but also add a rustic look.

10. Let the bread rise again for 15 minutes, covered with a towel.

Baking

11. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Once the bread has risen, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy on the outside.

12. When the bread is ready, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the crust with a little cold water. This trick will keep the crust crispy and add moisture to the inside.

Serving and Variations

Seed and rosemary bread is perfect for serving warm, alongside salted butter or goat cheese. You can use it as a base for avocado toast and poached eggs or pair it with fresh soups and salads.

If you want to experiment, you can add other seeds, such as sesame or chia seeds, or replace the rosemary with oregano or dill for a different flavor. A delicious option is to add olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough for a Mediterranean bread.

Nutritional Benefits

This bread is not only delicious but also healthy. Sunflower and flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health. Whole wheat flour provides fiber, essential for digestion, while rosemary has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need to adjust the amount (about 8-10 grams is sufficient).

- How can I keep the bread fresh for longer?
The bread keeps best in a cloth bag or an open container. Avoid wrapping it in plastic wrap, as this will make the crust soft.

- Is it possible to freeze the bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread. Make sure it is completely cooled before wrapping it in aluminum foil and placing it in the freezer. You can thaw it at room temperature or heat it directly in the oven.

I encourage you to try this seed and rosemary bread recipe; it will surely become one of your favorites. Cooking is an art, and every bread you make is a step toward perfection. Give it a try and share your result!