Herb Bread(2 Loaves)
Herb bread offers a fragrant, flavorful loaf with a tender crumb, perfect for sandwiches or as an accompaniment to meals, appealing to bread lovers and herb enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, yeast, and salad dressing mix; mix well.
- Heat buttermilk, water, and shortening until warm.
- Add the warm mixture to the flour mixture.
- Add the egg and blend well until moistened.
- Beat for 3 minutes on medium speed.
- Gradually stir in remaining flour until a firm dough forms.
- Knead until smooth, about 5 to 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl.
- Cover and let rise in a warm oven.
- Turn oven to 200°F for 1 minute, then turn off and leave the dough to rise.
- Punch down the dough and divide into two parts.
- Roll each part into a 12 x 7-inch rectangle, then roll up, sealing edges and ends.
- Place seam side down on a cookie sheet.
- Make diagonal slits 2 inches apart on top of each loaf.
- Cover and let rise in a warm oven for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Brush the loaves with melted butter and sprinkle with dressing mix.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter bread, consider using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. If buttermilk is not available, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar for acidity. Ensure your dough rises in a warm place; if your kitchen is cool, you can preheat your oven to a low temperature and then turn it off before placing the dough inside. This helps create the perfect environment for rising.
Serving Suggestions
This herb bread pairs beautifully with soups, especially the Cold Yellow Squash Soup, or as a side to a hearty salad. Serve it warm with butter or use it to make delicious sandwiches. You can also enjoy it with dips or spreads, making it a versatile addition to any meal or gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover herb bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices at room temperature or reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb Bread(2 Loaves) contains roughly 1309 calories, with 25g protein, 201g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (58% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 826mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herbs instead of the dressing mix?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil can enhance the flavor of your herb bread. Use about 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh herbs in place of the Hidden Valley dressing mix for a delightful twist.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn't rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the liquid mixture is warm, not hot, when combined. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer location, or increase the rising time to allow it to develop properly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after kneading. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and let it rise in the fridge overnight. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).