Irresistible Rosemary and Sea Salt Damper Recipe Delight

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Introduction
There’s something undeniably satisfying about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. Our Rosemary and Sea Salt Damper offers a crisp, golden crust with a soft, fluffy interior that melts in your mouth. Infused with fragrant rosemary and sprinkled with coarse sea salt, this rustic bread elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re enjoying it with soups, stews, or as a standalone snack, this damper is a true crowd-pleaser. You’ll learn how to bake this aromatic delight step by step and unlock tips for perfect texture every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of the Rosemary and Sea Salt Damper lies in its simplicity and flavor depth. The crust achieves a satisfying crunch while the interior remains tender and pillowy, creating an irresistible textural contrast. Fresh rosemary infuses subtle earthy notes, while coarse sea salt adds bursts of savory flavor. This damper is incredibly versatile — perfect alongside hearty soups, creamy dips, or even as a breakfast toast. Its rustic charm requires minimal ingredients, yet delivers maximum sensory satisfaction. Baking this bread from scratch is surprisingly simple, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. The aroma alone will transform your kitchen into a comforting haven of warmth and flavor.

Ingredients

4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp (8 g) baking powder
1 tsp (6 g) fine sea salt
2 tbsp (6 g) fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
1 tsp (4 g) coarse sea salt for topping

Optional: 1 tbsp sugar (to enhance browning)

Pro Tips

Use warm water, not hot – Warm water encourages optimal yeast and baking powder activation without killing it, ensuring a perfect rise.
Don’t overmix the dough – Gently combine ingredients to avoid dense bread; overworking develops gluten too much.
Score the top – Lightly scoring the dough allows steam to escape during baking, preventing cracks while creating a rustic, artisan look.

Additional tip: For extra flavor, lightly toast the rosemary in olive oil before mixing into the dough.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, fine sea salt, and chopped rosemary. Ensure the ingredients are evenly combined for consistent flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add warm water and olive oil to the dry mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft crumb.

Step 4: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, gently shape it into a round loaf, approximately 7–8 inches in diameter. Place it onto the prepared baking tray.

Step 5: Score and Top
Use a sharp knife to make a shallow cross on top of the dough. This helps the bread expand evenly while baking. Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top for a savory finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dough in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown. To check doneness, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the damper to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time ensures the interior sets properly and maintains a fluffy texture.

Step 8: Enjoy
Serve warm with butter, olive oil, or alongside your favorite soups and salads. The bread pairs exceptionally well with garlic pasta with bacon or roasted vegetable dishes.

Variations

Cheese and Herb Damper – Add ½ cup (50 g) grated cheddar or parmesan and a teaspoon of mixed herbs.
Gluten-Free Option – Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and slightly reduce water for proper consistency.
Sweet Twist – Mix in 2 tbsp honey and ¼ cup dried cranberries for a lightly sweet bread perfect for breakfast.

Storage and Serving

Store the Rosemary and Sea Salt Damper in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Serve this aromatic bread with hearty stews, creamy dips, or alongside a fresh salad. For a comforting snack, spread with butter and a touch of honey, or pair with garlic pasta with bacon for a rustic, satisfying meal.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
A: Yes, use about 1 tbsp of dried rosemary, finely crushed, to maintain flavor intensity.

Q2: How do I know when the damper is fully baked?
A: The crust should be golden brown, and tapping the base should produce a hollow sound.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Absolutely. Simply replace olive oil with a vegan-friendly oil if desired; this recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Q4: Can I bake this in a Dutch oven?
A: Yes, preheat the Dutch oven and bake the dough inside for a crustier, artisan-style bread.

Q5: Can I add other herbs or flavors?
A: Definitely. Fresh thyme, sage, or a touch of garlic powder can complement the rosemary beautifully.

Conclusion

This Rosemary and Sea Salt Damper is comfort food at its finest — rustic, aromatic, and satisfying with every bite. It’s the kind of bread that elevates everyday meals, pairs wonderfully with soups or salads, and brings warmth and flavor to any table. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or simply as a treat with your favorite dip, this damper will become a cherished recipe in your collection.