Basil Tomato Round Loaves

Basil Tomato Round Loaf

Like any home-made bread, it makes the house smell cozy while it is baking.  This recipe has no yeast, or waiting for it to rise in a warm place.  Simply combine the ingredients as instructed and bake two loaves of a family favorite.  Dried tomatoes can be found next to the raisins and dried fruit in your grocery store. You’ll enjoy the ease of baking bread with this recipe and it’s beautiful enough for gift giving.

2 ½ cups flour

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon sugar

2 teaspoons instant minced onion

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon dried basil leaves

½ teaspoon salt

1/3 cup dried tomatoes, chopped

1 cup of sour cream

1/3 cup milk

¼ cup butter, melted

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, Parmesan cheese, sugar, onion, baking soda, basil, salt and dried tomatoes.  In a separate small bowl, combine the sour cream, milk and butter.  Stir the sour cream mixture into the dried ingredients.  Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 10 times until the ingredients are well incorporated and the loaf is smooth.  Divide the dough into two round loaves 4 ½ inches wide.  Brush each loaf with milk or an egg white and sprinkle with additional Parmesan.  Cut an X into each loaf about ½ inch deep.  Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until golden brown.  Cool completely on a rack. Makes two loaves.