Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons sugar
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried rosemary)
Additional olive oil and coarse sea salt for topping
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
Prepare the Dough:
Add olive oil, salt, and chopped rosemary to the yeast mixture.
Gradually mix in the flour until a shaggy dough forms.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides.
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Loaf:
Punch down the risen dough to release air.
Shape it into a round loaf by folding the edges towards the center and then flipping it seam-side down.
Place the shaped dough onto a piece of parchment paper.
Second Rise:
Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven (with its lid) inside to heat up.
Bake the Bread:
Once the dough has risen and the oven is preheated, carefully remove the hot Dutch oven.
Using the parchment paper, lift the dough and place it into the Dutch oven.
Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top of the dough and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Make a few slashes on the top with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape.
Cover with the lid and return to the oven.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Cool the Bread:
Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and place it on a cooling rack.
Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to ensure the texture sets properly.
Enjoy your homemade rustic rosemary artisan bread with your favorite spreads, soups, or as a delightful accompaniment to any meal.