This No-Knead Garlic Herb Bread is the kind of recipe that earns you legendary status in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and zero kneading, it delivers a golden, aromatic loaf that’s crisp on the outside, pillowy on the inside, and infused with the irresistible flavor of fresh garlic. It’s the bread that disappears before it cools, the one your guests ask about, and the one your husband gets giddy over—because it’s that good.
The magic lies in the simplicity. The dough comes together in minutes, rests overnight (or for a few hours), and bakes into a rustic loaf with a crackling crust and a soft, chewy crumb. The garlic is finely chopped and mixed into the dough, releasing its flavor throughout the loaf. A drizzle of olive oil adds richness, while the salt balances everything beautifully. Whether served with soup, dipped in olive oil, or used for sandwiches, this bread is a game-changer.
INGREDIENTS:
- 500g all-purpose flour (about 4 cups)
- 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 350ml warm water (not hot)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme for extra aroma
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and chopped garlic. If using herbs, add them now. Stir to distribute evenly. Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky and rough—don’t worry, that’s perfect. - Let It Rise:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let the dough rest at room temperature for 8–12 hours, or overnight. It should double in size and look bubbly on the surface. - Shape the Dough:
Once risen, lightly flour your work surface. Turn the dough out and gently shape it into a round or oval loaf. No kneading—just fold it a few times to tighten the surface. Place the shaped dough onto a piece of parchment paper. Cover loosely and let it rest for 30–45 minutes while the oven preheats. - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). If you have a Dutch oven or heavy baking dish with a lid, place it inside to heat. This helps create steam for a crisp crust. - Bake the Bread:
Carefully transfer the dough (on parchment) into the hot Dutch oven or baking dish. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the crust is deep golden and crackly. - Cool and Serve:
Lift the bread out and place on a wire rack. Let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing—this helps set the crumb and keeps it moist.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
- Serve warm with butter, garlic-infused olive oil, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Use for sandwiches, bruschetta, or alongside pasta dishes.
- Add grated cheese to the dough for a cheesy garlic twist.
- Swap garlic for caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes for variation.
Narrative Notes:
This bread is proof that magic happens when you let time do the work. it’s a perfect addition to your comfort-food archive—easy, flavorful, and wildly popular. You could even build a themed bread collection around it: herb loaves, stuffed rolls, or keto-friendly flatbreads.