1. Ingredients
    • 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
    • 1½ tsp salt
    • 2¼ tsp (7 g) instant yeast
    • 1¼ cups (300 ml) warm water
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tbsp dried rosemary
    • 1 tbsp dried thyme
    • ½ tsp black pepper
    • 2 tbsp melted butter
    • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
    Method
    1. Mix: Combine flour, yeast and salt. Add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
    2. Knead: Knead for 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    3. First rise: Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, until doubled.
    4. Season: Mix melted butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme and pepper.
    5. Shape: Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Place on a lined baking tray. Brush generously with the herb-garlic butter and sprinkle Parmesan if using.
    6. Second rise: Cover and rest 30–40 minutes.
    7. Bake: Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 35–40 minutes, until deeply golden.
    8. Cool: Rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
    Tip: For the crispy, rustic crust shown in the photo, place a small oven-safe dish of hot water in the oven while baking.