| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins – 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 345 | 12g | 5g | 48g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 9g | 0.6g |
There’s a certain charm and delight that coincides with sinking your teeth into a warm piece of homemade bread. But not just any bread, I’m talking about my Welsh Onion and Herb Bread, a vegetable-based recipe that bears a strong reminiscence to my Italian-American roots yet offers a delightful divergence.
Perfect Fusion of Welsh and Italian Flavors
Taking advice from my elders, particularly my Italian grandparents, has lead me to create dishes that blend contemporary and traditional aspects seamlessly. The Welsh Onion and Herb Bread is inspired by hearty Italian staples like focaccia, yet it brings a unique twist with the incorporation of the Welsh onions and a selection of fresh herbs. The radiant green hues from these ingredients not only add an enchanting splash of color to the bread but also hint at its robust flavor.
Nutritional Aspects Worth Talking About
And while the beauty and flavor of the bread are undeniable, so are the health benefits. The abundance of onions and fresh herbs in the recipe contribute an array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, not to mention, their inherent antioxidant properties. Considering my age, I prefer to consume food that offers a punch of nutrients. It helps maintain a healthy balance and makes my hiking adventures throughout the Jersey woods all the more facile and enjoyable. You can learn more about the nutritional benefits of onions and herbs here and here, respectively.
Pairing Options For a Complete Meal
The Welsh Onion and Herb Bread can easily be the star of the show at your dining table. But it’s versatility can not be understated. It pairs excellently with a hearty stew or a simple salad, making for a complete and balanced meal. And if you’re feeling a little bit more adventurous, try it with a beautiful Osso Buco, a dish I take great solace in preparing and one that further mixes my Italian heritage with this Welsh influenced bread.
Creating this Welsh Onion and Herb Bread always takes me back to the cherished memories I’ve formed with my family, huddled together in the kitchen and around the dining table. It’s a heartening blend of tradition with a sprinkle of innovation, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this enticing loaf a chance. Who knows, it might just become your newest family tradition.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup finely chopped Welsh onions (green onions could be used as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking pan and set it aside.
Step Two
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter pieces, blending them into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step Three
Stir in the finely chopped Welsh onions and fresh herbs.
Step Four
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the whole milk and egg. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step Five
Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bread has a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step Six
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After cooling, transfer the bread to a wire rack to continue cooling, or serve warm. Enjoy your Welsh Onion and Herb Bread!
