“breadsticks”
Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade breadsticks, a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a tasty snack on their own. These breadsticks are easy to make and bursting with flavor, thanks to the addition of herbs and spices. Whether served with a dip or alongside a hearty soup, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will elevate your culinary skills!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 12 breadsticks. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 breadstick) contains approximately 80 calories, 1.5g protein, 15g carbohydrates, 2g fat, and 1g fiber. This is for one breadstick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast over it. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- After rising, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
- Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide and twist each strip.
- Place the twisted strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs or add cheese directly into the dough for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These breadsticks pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, soups, or salads. They can also be enjoyed with hummus or your favorite dip for a tasty snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply pop them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using water that is too hot can kill the yeast.
- Not allowing the dough to rise properly will result in dense breadsticks.
- Overbaking can lead to hard and dry breadsticks.
- Skipping the kneading process will affect the texture.
- Not using enough flour can make the dough sticky and hard to work with.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add herbs directly into the dough.
- Experiment with different toppings, like sesame seeds or coarse salt.
- Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
- Use a pizza cutter for easy slicing of the dough.
- Let the dough rest for a few minutes after rolling out for easier handling.
FAQs
Can I make breadsticks without yeast?
Yes, you can make quick breadsticks using baking powder instead of yeast. They won’t have the same texture but will still be delicious.
How can I make breadsticks softer?
To achieve softer breadsticks, avoid overbaking and consider adding more fat, like butter or oil, to the dough.
What can I serve with breadsticks?
Breadsticks are versatile; they pair well with soups, salads, cheese dips, or can be enjoyed on their own as a snack.
Can I freeze breadsticks?
Yes, you can freeze baked breadsticks. Just ensure they are properly sealed in a freezer bag to maintain freshness.
How long do breadsticks last?
Homemade breadsticks are best consumed within 2 days but can last up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature.
Conclusion
Homemade breadsticks are a delightful addition to any meal, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create these delicious treats at home. Serve them fresh and warm for the best experience!
Breadsticks
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried herbs oregano, basil, or thyme
- Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
Instructions
- Dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast over it. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
- Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide and twist each strip.
- Place twisted strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.