No-knead cheddar herb bread is a delicious and easy-to-make bread that requires minimal effort. Here’s a basic recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried mixed herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions:
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, shredded cheddar cheese, dried herbs, salt, and active dry yeast.
- Add Warm Water:
- Pour the warm water over the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.
- Cover and Let it Rise:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for about 12-18 hours. The longer rise time contributes to better flavor development.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a Dutch oven or an oven-safe pot with a lid in the oven as it preheats.
- Shape the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a well-floured surface. Gently shape it into a round ball. You can fold the edges of the dough towards the center to form a smooth top.
- Second Rise (Optional):
- You can let the shaped dough rise for an additional 30 minutes on a piece of parchment paper to help it maintain its shape during baking.
- Bake in a Dutch Oven:
- Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven from the oven. Place the dough, with the parchment paper if used, into the hot pot. Cover with the lid.
- Bake Covered:
- Bake covered for 30 minutes. This helps create steam, giving the bread a crispy crust.
- Bake Uncovered:
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool:
- Allow the cheddar herb bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
- Enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy your delicious no-knead cheddar herb bread with your favorite spreads or as a side to soups and salads.
This no-knead bread recipe is forgiving and allows you to experiment with different herbs and cheeses for variations in flavor.
