Rosemary Garlic Artisan Bread

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-bread flour or all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast

• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 1 1/2 cups warm water

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (plus a whole sprig for garnish)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt. Add the warm water, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir with a spatula until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.

2. First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator for an even better flavor) until doubled in size.

3. Shape: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven while it preheats. Turn the dough out onto a heavily floured surface, gently shape it into a round or oval loaf, and place it on a piece of parchment paper.

4. Score and Top: Brush the top with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, score the top with a sharp knife or razor, and place a fresh sprig of rosemary right down the center.

5. Bake: Carefully transfer the dough (using the parchment paper) into your preheated Dutch oven or onto a baking sheet. Cover with the lid (if using a Dutch oven) and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and crispy.

6. Cool: Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving!