1c.freshly grated or shredded parmesan cheesedivided
1/4tsp.rosemaryfreshly minced and (optional)
Instructions
Whisk the flour, salt, and yeast in a medium bowl. While stirring with a wooden spoon, gradually add the water, stir until incorporated. Mix the dough gently and form into a rough ball.
Transfer to a large clean (ungreased) bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a draft-free area at room temperature until the surface of the dough is covered with tiny bubbles and the dough has more than doubled in size (This usually takes about 18 hours or so, however, it still turns out great with just 12 hours of rise time).
When the dough is ready, place a Dutch oven into the oven and turn it on to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius). Allow it to heat in the oven for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, knead in minced garlic, 1/2 cup of cheese, and rosemary. Transfer the dough to a large square of parchment paper (big enough to cover the bottom of your Dutch oven). Lightly dust dough with flour, cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to rest for 30 minutes. Using a sharp knife, at a 90-degree angle, score an X in the top of the loaf. Each score mark should be about 3 1/2 inches long and about ¼” deep. Using a mister, spray bottle, clean toothbrush, or pastry brush, lightly mist (or brush) the top of the bread with water.
Carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven. Place the shaped dough into it, cover, and return to the oven to bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake for an additional 8-12 minutes or until the top is nice and dark (but not burnt). Remove from the oven and transfer the loaf of bread to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to prevent a gummy crumb.
Notes
STORE the freshly baked garlic parmesan bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. It will stay good for up to 3 days at room temperature. To FREEZE, wrap it securely in foil and then place it in a freezer bag and it will stay good for up to 3 months.To REHEAT, thaw it at room temperature if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crisp crust and warm center.