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Olive Thyme Bread

Olive Thyme Bread
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Olive Thyme Bread is a flavorful and aromatic homemade bread combining the briny richness of Kalamata olives with the fresh, herbal notes of thyme. Easy to bake, this rustic bread is perfect as a snack, side dish, or centerpiece for any meal, offering a delightful blend of textures and scents that fill your kitchen with warmth and freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free version)
  • 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups Warm Water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Salt
  • ¾ cup Kalamata Olives, pitted and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Thyme Leaves

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Start by mixing 1 ¼ cups warm water with 2 teaspoons active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour and 1 ½ teaspoons salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil, stirring until the dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Add Olives and Thyme: Gently fold in the ¾ cup chopped Kalamata olives and 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, distributing them evenly without overworking the dough to maintain texture.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf or round boule, and place it on a baking tray or bread pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 45 minutes.
  6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure proper yeast activation and optimal dough development.
  • Do not over-knead after adding olives and thyme to preserve their texture and flavor.
  • Allow the dough to rise fully for a lighter, airier loaf with excellent crumb.
  • Score the top of the loaf to control expansion and add an artisanal look.
  • Brush the loaf lightly with olive oil before baking to enhance crust color and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: olive thyme bread, homemade bread, Mediterranean bread, savory bread, bread with olives, herbal bread, easy bread recipe, gluten-free bread

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