RUSTIC OLIVE BREAD RECIPE

by

Rustic Olive Bread Recipe (No-Knead Style)**

Introduction:**

This rustic olive bread is a crusty, chewy, and flavorful loaf infused with black olives. It’s easy to make with minimal hands-on time—no kneading required! The perfect bread to accompany Mediterranean dishes, cheese platters, or just olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Ingredients (Big Loaf)**

  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose or bread flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1¾ cups (420ml) warm water
  • 1½ cups pitted black olives, chopped or sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
  • Extra flour for dusting
  • Parchment paper

Instructions**

1. Mixing the Dough (Night Before)

  • In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
  • Add warm water and olive oil (if using), stir with a spoon until combined.
  • Fold in the chopped olives evenly.
  • Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp towel.
  • Let it rest at room temperature (18–24 hours) until it’s bubbly and doubled in size.

2. Shaping the Dough

  • Lightly flour your work surface and hands.
  • Turn the dough out gently (it’s sticky—don’t punch it down).
  • Fold it a few times into a round loaf shape.
  • Place it onto a sheet of parchment paper. Let it rest 30–45 minutes, uncovered.

3. Preheat the Oven

  • While the dough is resting, place a Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot (with lid) in the oven.
  • Preheat to 230°C (450°F) for at least 30 minutes.

4. Baking

  • Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, lift the dough with the parchment paper, and place it into the pot.
  • Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the lid and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty.

5. Cool and Serve

  • Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing (if you can wait!).

Tips:**

  • Use Kalamata olives for a bolder flavor.
  • Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for extra aroma.
  • Can be made with half whole wheat flour for a rustic touch.

History:**

Rustic olive bread has roots in Mediterranean traditions—especially Italian and Greek cuisines—where olives are plentiful and bread is a staple. It’s known for its simplicity and rich, salty flavor.

Benefits:**

  • Rich in healthy fats (from olives and olive oil).
  • No preservatives or additives.
  • High in flavor and satisfaction!

Lovers of This Bread:**

  • Mediterranean food fans
  • Home bakers who love crusty loaves
  • Cheese and wine platter enthusiasts

Nutritional Info (1 Slice / 12 slices total):**

  • Calories: ~180
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g

Conclusion:**

This no-knead olive bread delivers artisan bakery results with minimal effort. With a crispy crust, fluffy interior, and briny olive bursts, it’s sure to become a favorite!

Leave a Comment