The art of bread-making has been a staple of human culture for centuries. From traditional European recipes to modern twists and interpretations, there’s something special about sinking your teeth into a freshly baked loaf. Among the many types of bread out there, peasant bread stands out as a particularly charming and rustic option. This hearty, crusty bread is often associated with simple, country living, but its appeal extends far beyond rural settings.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different recipes for rustic peasant bread that can be used to elevate any meal or occasion. Whether you’re looking for classic flavor combinations or bold twists and innovations, these recipes are sure to inspire your next baking adventure.
Classic No-Knead Peasant Bread
This recipe yields a crusty, rustic bread with a soft interior and a subtle sweetness, perfect for sandwiches or served with soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add the water and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Dust a baking sheet or Dutch oven with cornmeal and place the dough on top.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (90°C).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic and Herb Infused Peasant Loaf
This rustic bread recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the freshness of herbs, resulting in a deliciously aromatic loaf perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Add garlic, rosemary, and olive oil. Mix until well combined.
5. Knead the dough on floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
6. Place in a greased loaf pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 30 minutes.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Whole Wheat Peasant Bread with Seeds
A rustic, wholesome bread filled with nutritious seeds and a hint of earthy flavor. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup mixed seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, sesame)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, warm water, sugar, and yeast. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Add the mixed seeds and salt to the dough. Mix until well combined.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Olive Oil and Rosemary Peasant Bread
This rustic bread recipe combines the earthy flavors of rosemary with the richness of olive oil, perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a accompaniment to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, rosemary, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour to the bowl, one cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Crusty Peasant Bread
This rustic bread recipe yields a crusty, chewy loaf with a delightful yeasty flavor, perfect for serving alongside hearty soups or stews. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this artisan-style bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, yeast, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in the preheated Dutch oven, cover with a lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Crusty Peasant Bread!
Spelt Flour Peasant Bread with Honey
This recipe for Spelt Flour Peasant Bread with Honey combines the nutty flavor of spelt flour with the sweetness of honey, resulting in a delicious and rustic loaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup spelt flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine spelt flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
6. Mix honey and olive oil, then brush mixture onto the loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rustic Sourdough Peasant Bread
This hearty bread recipe combines the tanginess of sourdough with the simplicity of a peasant bread, perfect for sopping up olive oil and dipping in soups. With its rustic crust and chewy interior, it’s a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Mix the sourdough starter with 1/2 cup of warm water in a large bowl.
2. Add 1 cup of flour and mix until just combined, creating a shaggy dough.
3. Cover and let rest for 24 hours at room temperature.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Knead the remaining 2 cups of flour with the risen dough for 10 minutes.
6. Shape into a round or oblong loaf, placing it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Peasant Bread with Cheddar and Chives
Rich and buttery peasant bread gets a creamy boost from cheddar cheese and fresh chives, perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add melted butter, cheese, and chives; mix until dough forms.
4. Beat in the egg.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place dough in prepared loaf pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Peasant Bread
A flavorful and aromatic bread that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for a rustic meal or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flours, salt, sugar, and yeast. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves in the dough, folding to distribute evenly.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf, place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Multigrain Peasant Bread with Oats and Flax
This rustic bread is packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, flaxseeds, and whole grains, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying snack or meal accompaniment. With its slightly sweet flavor and nutty undertones, this bread is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 4 cups multigrain flour (containing whole wheat, rye, oats, barley, and flax)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add honey, multigrain flour, rolled oats, and ground flaxseeds to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a round loaf and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
French-Style Peasant Boule
This rustic boule, inspired by traditional French peasant cooking, is a hearty and satisfying loaf perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, until it develops a silky texture.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round boule. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Thyme Peasant Bread
A sweet and savory bread filled with the deep flavors of caramelized onions and fragrant thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, caramelized onions (see note), garlic, and thyme to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: Caramelize onions by cooking them in a skillet with olive oil over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark brown and sweet.
Beer-Battered Peasant Bread with a Crispy Crust
Elevate your bread game with this unique recipe that combines the richness of beer with the rustic charm of peasant bread. The crispy crust and soft interior make for a delightful accompaniment to soups, stews, or simply on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup beer (any style, but darker beers work best)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and beer to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Shape the dough into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Sage Peasant Bread
This rustic bread combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a side to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, warm water, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, chopped sage, and salt to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jalapeño and Cheddar Peasant Bread
This Jalapeño and Cheddar Peasant Bread is a flavorful twist on the classic peasant bread recipe, adding a spicy kick from jalapeños and a rich, cheesy flavor from cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh jalapeños
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Fold in chopped jalapeños and grated cheddar cheese.
6. Place the dough on a floured surface and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Brush with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Swirl Peasant Bread
Warm up with a deliciously comforting loaf of Apple Cinnamon Swirl Peasant Bread, perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. This moist and flavorful bread is infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, melted butter, chopped apple, and cinnamon. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then shape into a ball and place in prepared loaf pan.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Beat egg for egg wash and brush over the bread.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Peasant Bread for Fall
Cozy up to the flavors of fall with this sweet and savory pumpkin spice peasant bread, perfect for a crisp autumn afternoon. This moist and aromatic loaf is infused with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, making it an ideal accompaniment to your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Mix in pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Raisin and Walnut Studded Peasant Bread
Raisin and Walnut Studded Peasant Bread Recipe
This hearty bread is studded with sweet raisins and crunchy walnuts, perfect for a comforting snack or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Fold in raisins and walnuts.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rustic charm of traditional peasant bread with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic no-knead to garlic and herb infused, whole wheat with seeds, and spelt flour with honey, there’s something for every occasion. Try your hand at sourdough, cheesy, or sun-dried tomato and basil loaves, or go all out with caramelized onion and thyme or beer-battered crusts. Perfect for a cozy evening in or as a gift for friends and family, these rustic peasant bread recipes will transport you to a simpler time.
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