Savory Rosemary Bread Pudding

Ingredients and Preparations

Selecting the Right Bread:

To create a truly exceptional Savory Rosemary Bread Pudding, selecting the right bread is crucial. The type and quality of bread used will greatly impact the flavor, texture, and overall success of the dish.

Bread with good *crumb* structure and texture is essential for a bread pudding that holds its shape and has a pleasant bite. A dense or heavy bread can result in a soggy or unpleasantly chewy texture, while too light or airy bread may not hold up well to the liquid ingredients and cooking process.

Some popular options for bread include:

Challah
Cuban Bread
Italian Bread
Sourdough
Whole Wheat

When selecting a bread, look for one with the following characteristics:

Bulk Density:
A dense crumb structure that holds its shape when sliced.
Softness:
A soft and airy texture that is neither too hard nor too soggy.

It’s also worth noting that bread with a high sodium content can affect the overall flavor and texture of the Savory Rosemary Bread Pudding. A lower sodium option, such as whole wheat or sourdough, may be a better choice for this recipe.

Once you’ve selected the right bread, cut it into 1-inch cubes and let them sit out at room temperature for at least 24 hours to dry out slightly. This step is crucial in preventing excess moisture from affecting the final texture of the bread pudding.

Bread is a crucial component of this Savory Rosemary Bread Pudding recipe, providing texture and flavor to the final product. According to food scientists at Kansas State University, bread with a higher moisture content can help create a richer flavor profile in the finished dish.

Bread is indeed the foundation upon which this savory rosemary bread pudding recipe relies, its significance extending beyond mere sustenance to provide both texture and flavor to the final product.

The incorporation of bread into the dish serves several purposes, including adding a satisfying crunch to the soft, moist texture that typically characterizes bread puddings.

Moreover, the bread’s role in contributing flavors is not insignificant, as its own inherent taste profile interacts with and complements the other ingredients in the recipe, resulting in a more complex and nuanced final product.

In specific reference to this savory rosemary bread pudding, researchers at Kansas State University suggest that utilizing bread with a higher moisture content can lead to the creation of a richer flavor profile.

The presence of water molecules within the bread is believed by these scientists to facilitate chemical reactions between compounds in the bread and other ingredients, ultimately enhancing the depth and intensity of flavors present in the finished dish.

It’s worth noting that this concept applies broadly across various recipes that involve bread as a key component. Selecting the right type of bread with an optimal moisture level can therefore have a significant impact on the overall success of such preparations.

This principle can be observed by selecting a high-moisture bread, for instance one that is slightly more dense and less crumbly than others, allowing it to better release its inherent flavors during the cooking process.

Rosemary Infusion:

The savory rosemary bread pudding recipe requires a few key ingredients, including:

Bread:** Stale bread, preferably a rustic Italian or French bread with a slightly crusty exterior and a soft interior. This will add texture and flavor to the dish.
Rosemary: A fragrant herb with needle-like leaves that pair well with olive oil, garlic, and lemon. Choose fresh rosemary sprigs for the best flavor.
Onions: Sweet or yellow onions add a depth of flavor to the dish. You can use either raw or cooked onions, depending on your preference.
Cheese:** Grated Parmesan or Cheddar cheese adds richness and creaminess to the bread pudding.
Eggs:** Large eggs help bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the dish.
Milk: Whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream are all good options for adding moisture and richness to the bread pudding.
Olive oil: A flavorful oil that enhances the herbs and adds a subtle bitterness to balance out the dish.

To make the rosemary infusion, you’ll need:

Cut 1/4 cup of fresh rosemary sprigs into smaller pieces, leaving some stems intact for garnish.
Add the rosemary to a saucepan with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture has cooled slightly and the flavors have melded together.
Strain the rosemary infusion through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the solids.

To make the savory bread pudding:

Cube the stale bread into 1-inch pieces and place on a baking sheet.
Mix together the rosemary infusion, olive oil, onions, cheese, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined.
Add the cubed bread to the bowl and toss until the bread is evenly coated with the wet ingredients.
Transfer the bread mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the liquid has been absorbed.

Serve the savory rosemary bread pudding warm, garnished with additional fresh rosemary sprigs if desired. Enjoy!

Fresh rosemary leaves should be used for their intense aroma and flavor. Simply chop the leaves finely and infuse them into the melted butter for 1015 minutes before adding it to the bread mixture. This allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously, much like how botanists at the University of California describe the process of essential oil extraction from herbs.

The savory rosemary bread pudding is a dish that relies heavily on the freshness and quality of its ingredients, particularly when it comes to the use of rosemary leaves.

Fresh rosemary leaves are essential for their intense aroma and flavor, which play a crucial role in elevating this savory bread pudding to new heights.

To unlock the full potential of these fragrant leaves, they should be chopped finely before being infused into the melted butter.

This step allows the flavors of the rosemary to meld together harmoniously with the other ingredients, creating a truly delightful taste experience.

The process of infusing the rosemary in the melted butter for 10-15 minutes is similar to the method used by botanists at the University of California to extract essential oils from herbs.

This infusion time enables the rosemary’s potent flavor compounds to dissolve into the butter, resulting in a rich and savory spread that is perfect for dressing the bread pudding.

When using fresh rosemary leaves in cooking, it’s essential to remember that they can be quite potent, so a little goes a long way. Chopping them finely helps to distribute their flavor evenly throughout the dish.

The use of high-quality ingredients like fresh rosemary is what sets this savory bread pudding apart from other recipes. By paying attention to the details and using only the best ingredients, home cooks can create a truly exceptional dish that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Preparing the Pudding

Combining the Ingredients:

In preparing the pudding for the Savory Rosemary Bread Pudding recipe, it’s essential to combine the ingredients carefully to achieve a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This will ensure that the pudding cooks evenly and at the correct temperature throughout the baking process.

Next, take the stale bread and tear it into small pieces. You can use any type of bread you like for this recipe, but a crusty bread such as baguette or ciabatta works particularly well. Place the torn bread in a large mixing bowl.

Now, add the chopped fresh rosemary leaves to the bread in the mixing bowl. Rosemary is a key ingredient in this savory bread pudding, and it adds a fragrant herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the bread. Use about 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary leaves for this recipe, depending on how strong you like the rosemary flavor.

Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs, milk, grated cheese (such as Parmesan or cheddar), salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl until well combined. This mixture is what will bind all the ingredients together and create the creamy texture of the pudding.

Add the egg-milk mixture to the bread mixture in the large mixing bowl and stir gently until everything is well coated. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as this can lead to a dense and heavy pudding.

Now it’s time to add any additional ingredients you like to customize your Savory Rosemary Bread Pudding. Some ideas include diced ham or bacon for added savory flavor, chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme, or even some caramelized onions for sweetness. Just stir these ingredients in gently and make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the pudding.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top with your spatula. This will help ensure that the pudding cooks evenly and prevents any air pockets from forming during baking.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is lightly set and still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove the foil or parchment paper for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.

Once the pudding has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You can serve this savory bread pudding as a side dish or add it to your favorite entrees or brunch dishes for added flavor and texture. Enjoy!

In a large bowl, combine the torn bread, sautéed onions, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients, just as the USDA suggests when combining different food components for optimal flavor.

To prepare the pudding, start by tearing 6-8 slices of bread into small pieces and placing them in a large bowl.

Next, sauté 1/4 cup of onions until they are softened and fragrant, then add them to the bowl with the bread.

Chop 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary leaves, about 2 tablespoons worth, and add them to the bowl as well.

Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the bowl and mix well to distribute evenly.

Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, using a pinch of each to start.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Tear bread into small pieces and place in large bowl.
Sauté onions until softened and add them to the bowl.
Add chopped rosemary leaves and mix well.
Add garlic powder and mix until evenly distributed.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Tips for Even Distribution:

Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures.
Use a spoon or spatula to gently fold the ingredients together, being careful not to compact the bread too much.
If using fresh rosemary, be sure to chop it finely so that it distributes evenly throughout the pudding.

This savory rosemary bread pudding is perfect for serving as a side dish or using as a base for other recipes. Its rich flavors and textures are sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Baking and Serving

Final Touches:

To complete the baking process for the savory rosemary bread pudding, you need to apply a few final touches that will elevate its flavor and presentation.

Firstly, while the bread pudding is still warm from the oven, it’s time to add some finishing touches on top.

You can sprinkle a pinch of coarse salt over the surface of the bread pudding to bring out the flavors of the rosemary and other herbs used in the recipe.

Additionally, you can drizzle a small amount of good quality olive oil over the bread pudding to add moisture and depth to its flavor profile.

Next, it’s time to garnish the savory rosemary bread pudding with some fresh rosemary sprigs or chopped herbs, depending on your personal preference.

This will not only add a pop of color but also provide an aroma that is sure to tantalize the senses and leave everyone wanting more.

Finally, consider serving the savory rosemary bread pudding in individual portions, which can be done by cutting it into slices or cubes, depending on your preference.

This will make it easier for guests to serve themselves and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Regardless of how you choose to present it, one thing is certain – the savory rosemary bread pudding is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it!

The combination of the crispy crust on top, the soft and airy interior, and the fragrant flavors of the rosemary and other herbs will make this dish a standout at any gathering or event.

Transfer the bread mixture into a greased 9x13inch baking dish and drizzle with the infused butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3035 minutes or until golden brown on top. Serve warm, garnished with additional rosemary sprigs if desired. The National Culinary Institute advises serving warm bread pudding to appreciate its optimal texture and flavor.

The final step in preparing this delectable Savory Rosemary Bread Pudding is to transfer the bread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring that the entire surface is evenly coated with the butter-infused goodness.

This critical step not only facilitates the even distribution of flavors but also helps to prevent the bread from sticking to the dish and making it difficult to remove after baking.

Once the bread mixture is in place, drizzle the infused butter over the top, allowing the aromatic properties of the rosemary and the richness of the butter to meld together and infuse the bread with their delightful flavors.

Next, carefully position the baking dish within a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C), where it will undergo a transformative process that will render the bread crispy on the outside while retaining its soft and airy texture on the inside.

The baking time required for this Savory Rosemary Bread Pudding is between 30-35 minutes, or until it reaches a golden brown hue on top. It’s essential to monitor the bread during this period, as overcooking can cause it to become dry and lose its natural flavors.

As soon as the bread pudding emerges from the oven, remove it from the baking dish and transfer it to a serving platter or individual plates, allowing it to cool for a brief moment before serving.

The National Culinary Institute’s recommendation is to serve this warm bread pudding immediately, garnished with additional rosemary sprigs if desired. This will enable you to appreciate its optimal texture and flavor, as the warmth of the bread brings out the aromatic properties of the rosemary and creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.