The aroma of freshly baked bread, tinged with the sweet tang of sun-ripened tomatoes – is there anything more comforting? This Tomato Bread Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a weekend brunch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and absolutely rewarding. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a loaf of homemade tomato bread that’s bursting with flavor.
Table Of Contents
Similar to a simple focaccia bread recipe, this tomato bread uses simple ingredients but yields incredible results. The key lies in the quality of the ingredients and a little bit of patience. So, gather your supplies, put on your apron, and let’s get baking!
The Magic of Tomato Bread: Flavor and Texture
What makes tomato bread so special? It’s the perfect marriage of savory and slightly sweet, with a tender crumb and a subtly crisp crust. The tomatoes add a burst of freshness and a beautiful vibrant color that makes this bread a true showstopper. Imagine slicing into a warm loaf, the aroma filling your kitchen, and enjoying it with a simple smear of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. It’s pure bliss!
Choosing the Right Tomatoes
Now, let’s talk tomatoes. While you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch, fresh, ripe tomatoes truly elevate this tomato bread recipe. Look for juicy, flavorful varieties like Roma or San Marzano tomatoes. If you’re lucky enough to have homegrown tomatoes, even better! The flavor they’ll impart to your bread will be unmatched.
Ripe tomatoes for tomato bread recipe
Kneading: The Key to a Perfect Crumb
Kneading is crucial for developing the gluten in the dough, which gives the bread its structure and texture. Don’t be intimidated by this step! Think of it as a gentle workout for your dough. You’ll know your dough is ready when it’s smooth and elastic, springing back when you poke it. If you’re new to bread making, this might take a little practice, but you’ll get the hang of it. Just like learning to ride a bike, it becomes second nature after a while.
Tomato Bread Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s the moment you’ve been waiting for – the recipe! This tomato bread recipe is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginners.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
- Dried herbs (optional – oregano, basil, thyme)
Instructions:
- Bloom the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Add tomatoes and oil: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and olive oil into the dough. If using dried herbs, add them now.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Kneading tomato bread dough
- Shape the loaf: Gently punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Second rise (proofing): Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Tomato Bread
- Don’t overwork the dough: Over-kneading can result in a tough loaf.
- Check your yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active.
- Adjust baking time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your bread and adjust the baking time as needed. If you enjoy baking bread, you might find our white bread recipe for bread machine interesting.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients to your tomato bread, such as roasted garlic, olives, or different herbs. Just like our pita bread pizza recipe, the possibilities are endless.
Freshly baked loaf of tomato bread
FAQs About Tomato Bread
Q: Can I use sun-dried tomatoes? A: Yes, you can! Sun-dried tomatoes will add a more intense flavor. Rehydrate them in warm water before adding them to the dough. A fry bread taco recipe would also pair well with sun-dried tomatoes.
Q: How do I store tomato bread? A: Store your tomato bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Enjoy Your Homemade Tomato Bread!
This tomato bread recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures of baking. With a little effort and a lot of love, you can create a loaf that’s not only delicious but also deeply satisfying. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the fruits (or rather, the tomatoes) of your labor! And if you are looking for other interesting bread recipes, our focaccia bread recipe offers a delightful Italian twist.
