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Olive Thyme Bread

Olive Thyme Bread
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Olive Thyme Bread is a fragrant and savory artisan loaf featuring a tender crumb and crispy crust, studded with briny olives and fresh thyme. This easy-to-make bread uses simple pantry staples combined with fresh herbs for a rich, aromatic flavor perfect for any meal or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose or bread flour
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 105°F / 40°C)
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ cup pitted Kalamata or green olives, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Dissolve the instant yeast in warm water mixed with a pinch of sugar or honey if using. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy and bubbly, confirming the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and fresh thyme. Pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Fold in the chopped olives evenly.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, developing gluten for texture.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
  5. Shape and Second Rise: Gently deflate and shape the dough into a round or oval loaf. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet or floured proofing basket. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Just before baking, score the top with a sharp knife. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
  7. Cool and Enjoy: Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack to set the crumb and full flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh thyme for the best aroma and flavor.
  • Don’t overload with olives as it may affect dough rising.
  • Ensure water is warm (not hot) to properly activate yeast.
  • Score the bread before baking to prevent bursting and improve appearance.
  • Let the bread cool fully before slicing to avoid gummy texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: olive bread, thyme bread, artisan bread, savory bread, homemade bread, Mediterranean bread

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/olive-thyme-bread/