Cottage Lane Artisan Bakery
This is a rustic, elongated loaf of bread. It features a crisp, golden-brown crust and a soft, airy interior. Throughout the dough, finely minced garlic is incorporated, infusing the bread with a savory aroma and a subtle, pleasant garlic flavor. The batard shape, longer than it is wide, allows for a good ratio of crust to crumb, making each slice satisfying. It is baked fresh, ready to be enjoyed.
Garlic batard is a versatile bread that complements many meals and can be enjoyed on its own.
To best enjoy this bread, consider warming it slightly. A brief period in a moderate oven, perhaps for five to seven minutes, will enhance its crustiness and bring out the garlic's fragrance. It can also be sliced and toasted for a delightful crunch. For a simple yet elegant appetizer, slice it, brush with olive oil, and top with fresh herbs or tomatoes. It is also excellent served as is, allowing its inherent flavors to shine.
Unlike a plain baguette, this batard has the added dimension of garlic baked directly into the dough. This provides a more complex flavor profile than simply topping a plain bread with garlic. Its crust is typically chewier than that of a sourdough, offering a different textural experience.
Home cooks and professional chefs alike appreciate this bread for its flavor and texture.
To keep the remaining bread fresh, store it at room temperature in a paper bag or a bread box. Avoid plastic bags, which can make the crust soft. For longer storage, it can be sliced and frozen, then thawed or reheated directly from frozen.