There’s something utterly magical about the way the scent of fresh bread fills the air, enveloping you like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. I remember the days spent in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the aroma of rosemary and garlic would dance through the air as she pulled warm breadsticks from the oven. These weren’t just any breadsticks; they were a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that brought family and friends together around the table.
As autumn leaves began to fall and the golden sunlight streamed through the window, we would gather, laughter echoing against the walls, hands reaching for those golden, crusty delights. Today, as I recreate those cherished memories, I invite you to join me on this culinary journey. Let’s make some rustic herb-infused breadsticks that will fill your home with warmth and love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Flaky sea salt, for topping
Instructions
Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, a sign that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sea salt, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and garlic powder. This blend of herbs will infuse your breadsticks with a delightful aroma reminiscent of the countryside.
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the dry ingredients, followed by the olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. It may seem a bit sticky at first, but don’t worry. It will come together beautifully.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Feel the texture change beneath your hands as you create a lovely, pliable dough. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This is a perfect time to reminisce about those family gatherings while envisioning the delightful breadsticks soon to grace your table.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it back to the floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin stick, about 10-12 inches in length. As you shape them, feel free to let your imagination take flight; twist them for an elegant touch or keep them straight for a classic look.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and place the breadsticks on the sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Brush them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top, allowing their rustic charm to shine through.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be a testament to the love and care poured into these delightful breadsticks.
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. These breadsticks are best enjoyed warm, perhaps alongside a bowl of hearty soup or as a delightful accompaniment to a fresh salad.
As you gather around the table with loved ones, share stories and laughter, just as we did in my grandmother’s kitchen. These rustic herb-infused breadsticks are more than just a recipe; they are a celebration of togetherness, warmth, and the beauty of homemade goodness.