What is rosemary bread?
Rosemary bread is a type of bread that is made with the herb rosemary. The rosemary gives the bread a distinctive flavor and aroma. The herb is often mixed into the dough before baking, but can also be used to coat the outside of the loaf. The rosemary adds a nice zing to the bread that pairs well with many foods.
Some key things to know about rosemary bread:
– It has an earthy, pine-like flavor from the rosemary. This can range from quite subtle to very prominent depending on how much rosemary is used.
– The texture is similar to regular bread or focaccia. The interior tends to be soft and airy. The top crust is often drizzled with olive oil or sprinkled with coarse salt before baking.
– Rosemary bread makes a nice accompaniment to Mediterranean-style dishes. It also pairs well with soups, salads, cheeses, and dips.
– You can find rosemary bread at many bakeries and grocery stores. However, it’s also easy to make your own at home.
What foods pair well with rosemary bread?
Rosemary bread is very versatile when it comes to food pairings. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside rosemary bread:
Soups
Rosemary bread is fantastic for dunking into hearty soups. Some good soup options include:
– Minestrone
– Tomato basil
– Butternut squash
– Potato leek
– Chicken noodle
– Beef barley
– Lentil
– Tuscan bean
The rosemary flavor pairs nicely with these soups and adds an extra dimension to the dish. A thick slice of rosemary bread is perfect for dunking into the soup broth.
Salads
For salads, rosemary bread makes a nice accompanyment instead of regular croutons or bread sticks. Try using slices or cubes of rosemary bread on:
– Greek salad
– Caprese salad
– Caesar salad
– Spinach salad
– Kale salad
– Wedge salad
– Beet salad
The rosemary notes enhance the salad flavors. You can rub the bread with garlic for extra flavor. Toasting the bread first will add crunch.
Cheeses
Rosemary and cheese are a classic combination. Rosemary bread pairs wonderfully with an assortment of cheeses. Set out a cheese board with rosemary bread and include options like:
– Mozzarella
– Parmesan
– Feta
– Goat cheese
– Brie
– Cheddar
– Manchego
– Pecorino
– Gouda
The salty, robust cheeses balance well with the rosemary flavor. The bread can be sliced or cut into wedges for serving.
Dips
In place of chips or pita bread, use pieces of rosemary bread for dipping into:
– Hummus
– Baba ganoush
– Olive tapenade
– Artichoke dip
– Spinach dip
– French onion dip
– Feta dip
The rosemary bread holds up well to thick dips and provides a unique flavor. Cut the bread into strips or triangles. Toasting first will create a nice crunch.
Antipasto Platters
An antipasto platter with rosemary bread is a winning combination. Some antipasto ingredients to serve with the bread include:
– Prosciutto
– Salami
– Pepperoni
– Fresh mozzarella
– Olives
– Roasted peppers
– Artichoke hearts
– Sundried tomatoes
Create a spread of meat, cheese, and vegetables to enjoy with slices of the rosemary bread. The bread complements the mix of salty, savory flavors.
Bruschetta
Rosemary bread makes fantastic bruschetta since the flavors pair so well. Top slices of rosemary bread with:
– Fresh tomato, basil, garlic
– White bean purée, olive oil, rosemary
– Grilled eggplant, roasted red pepper, goat cheese
– Artichoke spread, olive tapenade, Parmesan
Toast the bread first before topping and serving. The rosemary flavor enhances these bruschetta combinations.
Meats
For heartier main dishes, enjoy rosemary bread alongside:
– Steak
– Lamb
– Pork chops
– Chicken
– Turkey
The herbaceous notes in the bread provide a nice complement to the rich meat flavors. The bread is great for serving with pan sauces and gravies.
Seafood
Rosemary bread is a natural fit with seafood including:
– Grilled shrimp
– Seared scallops
– Baked cod
– Salmon
– Halibut
– Swordfish
The rosemary hints beautifully accent lighter fish and shellfish. Use the bread to soak up any juices or creamy sauces from the seafood.
Vegetable Dishes
Don’t forget roasted or grilled veggies. Rosemary bread pairs well with:
– Roasted potatoes
– Grilled eggplant
– Ratatouille
– Roasted squash
– Grilled vegetables
– Tomato gratins
The bread stands up to the hearty vegetable flavors. The rosemary notes provide a subtle undertone.
Dinner Rolls
For a simple option, shape rosemary bread dough into small dinner rolls. Serve the rolls with pasta dishes, casseroles, or soups. Their convenience and versatility make them perfect for weeknight meals.
Conclusion
Rosemary bread is widely versatile when it comes to meal accompaniments. Its unique flavor pairs well with soups, salads, cheeses, Mediterranean appetizers, bruschetta, meats, seafood, vegetables, and more. Baked into dinner rolls, rosemary bread can round out all kinds of meals and dishes. With so many possibilities, consider keeping rosemary bread on hand as a go-to option for everyday eating or entertaining. Let the delightful rosemary aroma and taste enhance your dishes.