Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Herb Bread Recipe

Introduction

This Hobbiton Herb Bread is a fragrant, rustic bread inspired by the cozy kitchens of Middle-earth. Packed with fresh and dried herbs, it’s perfect for sharing at any gathering or enjoying with your favorite soup or stew.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Step 2: Add olive oil, salt, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the flour until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
4. Step 4: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it proof for another 30-40 minutes.
5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with olive oil and sprinkle extra herbs on top for added flavor.
6. Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Swap fresh herbs for dried if needed; use about one-third of the amount and adjust to taste.
• For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of honey or substitute part of the water with buttermilk.
• Try incorporating a handful of grated Parmesan cheese into the dough for a savory twist.
• If you prefer a crustier loaf, place a pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam.

Storage

Store leftover bread in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To refresh, warm slices in a toaster or oven. For longer storage, freeze the loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil; thaw before use.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Use about 25% less than the active dry yeast called for and mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Use dried herbs instead, reducing the amount to about one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated. Adjust to your taste for best results.

Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Herb Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 99 reviews

This Hobbiton Herb Bread recipe inspired by the Shire combines aromatic fresh and dried herbs with a soft, flavorful loaf perfect for any meal. The bread features rosemary, thyme, oregano, parsley, and garlic, making it wonderfully fragrant and savory. Easy to make with basic ingredients and baked to a golden crust, it’s a delightful homemade bread that brings a touch of Middle-earth to your table.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 10–12 slices) 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley

Wet Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture stand for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix Dough Ingredients: Add olive oil, salt, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, dried oregano, and dried parsley to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour while mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Then place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and allow it to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
4. Shape and Proof: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let the dough proof for another 30-40 minutes until it nearly doubles again.
5. Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with olive oil and sprinkle additional herbs if desired.
6. Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy fresh or as part of your favorite meal.

Notes

• Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor, but dried herbs work well too.
• Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
• For a crustier bread, place an oven-safe dish with water in the oven during baking to create steam.
• You can substitute olive oil with another vegetable oil if preferred.
• Store leftover bread in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for best freshness.

Keywords: herb bread, rosemary bread, homemade bread, garlic bread, hobbiton bread, fresh herbs bread, savory bread