This recipe brings a delightful twist to traditional bread by infusing it with the fresh, aromatic flavor of basil. The dough is crafted with care, combining flour, yeast, warm water, olive oil, and a touch of sugar and salt, then enriched with finely chopped fresh basil leaves. The bread is shaped into elegant braids, each one carefully formed from three strands, and finished with a milk wash and a sprinkle of seeds for a crunchy texture. Baked until golden, this bread is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds.
Why You'll Love This:
- Aromatic Basil Flavor: The fresh basil infuses the bread with a delightful herby aroma.
- Beautifully Braided: The intricate braiding makes it perfect for a special occasion or as an impressive homemade gift.
- Crunchy Seed Topping: Adds a lovely contrast in texture.
- Versatile: Serve as a side with dinner, as part of a brunch spread, or enjoy simply with butter.
- Homemade and Heartfelt: There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking your own bread.
Ingredients:
- 600 g flour
- 10 g fresh yeast
- 200 ml warm water
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh basil leaves
Directions:
- Prepare the dough by placing the flour in a container and making a well in the center.
- In the well, add the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add the remaining ingredients, including the finely chopped basil leaves, and knead for 5-6 minutes. Let the dough rise for a couple of hours.
- Once risen, divide the dough into 9 equal parts.
- Roll each part into long strands.
- Form three groups, each with three strands, and braid them as shown in the video.
- Let the braids rise for another 20 minutes.
- Brush with milk and sprinkle with seeds.
- Bake at 170°C (338°F) for 40 minutes.
Enjoy this Basil-Infused Braided Bread as a beautiful and flavorful addition to any meal, perfect for sharing with family and friends! 🍞🌿✨