Rosemary Garlic Skillet Bread

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🌿 Rosemary Garlic Skillet Bread (Rustic Herb Focaccia-Style)

📝 Introduction

There is nothing more comforting than the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. This beautiful golden loaf, baked in a skillet and topped with fresh rosemary and herbs, is inspired by traditional Italian-style flatbreads like Focaccia. Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and infused with garlic and olive oil, this bread is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply enjoying with a warm bowl of soup.

It is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve guests.

📜 History of Rosemary Herb Bread

Herb breads trace their roots back to ancient Mediterranean civilizations. In Italy, focaccia was considered a “poor man’s bread” because it required simple ingredients: flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and herbs. Rosemary became popular because it grows abundantly in Mediterranean climates and adds fragrance and flavor naturally.

Over time, skillet baking became popular in home kitchens because it creates a crisp crust similar to stone ovens.

🧂 Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (not hot)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional for richer flavor)

Toppings:

  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
  • Optional: thyme, sesame seeds, or grated parmesan

👩‍🍳 Formation & Dough Preparation

  1. Activate the Yeast
    Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the Dough
    In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until dough forms.
  3. Kneading
    Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise
    Place in an oiled bowl. Cover and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Bread
    Transfer dough into a greased cast iron skillet. Gently press outward to fill pan.
  6. Second Rise
    Let rest 30 minutes. Use fingers to create small dimples on top.

🔥 Cooking Method

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Brush top with olive oil.
  3. Sprinkle garlic, rosemary, and sea salt.
  4. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Cool slightly before slicing.

🥖 Alternative Methods

  • No-Knead Method: Mix ingredients and let rise overnight (8–12 hours).
  • Whole Wheat Version: Replace 1 cup flour with whole wheat flour.
  • Cheesy Version: Add mozzarella or cheddar inside the dough.
  • Stovetop Method: Cook covered skillet on low heat, then finish under lid until cooked through.

💚 Benefits

  • Provides carbohydrates for energy
  • Rosemary contains antioxidants
  • Garlic supports immune health
  • Olive oil contains healthy fats
  • Homemade bread avoids preservatives

🥗 Nutrition (Approximate per slice)

  • Calories: 180–220 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Fiber: 1–2g

Values vary depending on added cheese or butter.

❤️ Why Bread Lovers Adore This Recipe

  • Crispy crust with soft interior
  • Beautiful rustic presentation
  • Customizable with herbs and cheese
  • Perfect with soups, salads, grilled meats
  • Great for dipping in olive oil and balsamic vinegar

This bread is loved by families, home bakers, and food enthusiasts who appreciate simple ingredients transformed into something magical.

🌟 Conclusion

Rosemary Garlic Skillet Bread is more than just bread — it’s comfort, tradition, and flavor combined in one golden loaf. Whether served at dinner, shared at gatherings, or enjoyed warm with butter, this herb bread brings people together.

Once you try it, it will become a favorite in your kitchen and in the hearts of all bread lovers. 🥖✨

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