Imagine filling your kitchen with the intoxicating blend of warm, freshly baked bread infused with the bold, earthy flavors of garlic and cumin. This isn't just any bread - it's a sensory journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, this Garlic and Cumin Bread recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress everyone at your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and cumin seeds. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients along with the minced garlic and olive oil. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, adding a little more flour if necessary, until it is smooth and elastic.
- Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30 minutes, or until it has puffed up slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is rising for the second time.
- Once the dough has risen, place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Enjoy your homemade Garlic and Cumin Bread as a delicious accompaniment to your favorite Middle Eastern dishes or simply with olive oil for dipping!
Tips
- Water Temperature Matters: Ensure your water is exactly 110°F (43°C) for activating yeast - too hot will kill the yeast, too cold won't activate it.
- Fresh Ingredients Are Key: Use fresh garlic and whole cumin seeds for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Kneading Technique: Don't rush the kneading process. A full 8-10 minutes develops the gluten, giving your bread a perfect texture.
- Rising Environment: Choose a warm, draft-free spot for rising - near a preheating oven or in a turned-off oven with the light on works perfectly.
- Moisture Check: Cover your rising dough with a damp cloth to prevent the surface from drying out.
- Baking Tip: For a glossy, golden crust, you can brush the top with an egg wash before baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Always let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its internal moisture and structure.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
