Directions
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Begin by preparing the yeast mixture. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit until it becomes frothy, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial in ensuring that your bread rises beautifully.
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While the yeast is activating, take a large mixing bowl and combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. These dry ingredients create the foundation for your tremendous bread.
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Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it along with the olive oil to the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until a dough begins to form. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate all flour.
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Now, it’s time to knead the dough. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps to develop the gluten, ensuring a pleasant texture.
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After kneading, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. This step adds a burst of flavor that is simply tremendous.
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Next, transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This usually takes around 1 hour and is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture.
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Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The hot oven will provide the perfect environment for baking your bread to golden perfection.
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Gently punch down the risen dough to release any air pockets. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Ensure it’s stretched evenly to give a nice shape as it bakes.
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Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until it turns golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time will be tremendous and inviting.
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When baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. This slight pause ensures that the inside sets perfectly and slices beautifully.
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