Jamie Oliver Olive Bread Recipe

This Jamie Oliver Olive Bread recipe creates a delicious, crusty bread with a light, fluffy crumb and briny bursts of flavor from olives. Made with simple ingredients, this homemade olive bread is perfect for pairing with cheese, dipping in olive oil, or serving alongside a Mediterranean meal. The olives add a wonderful savory touch, making this bread a unique addition to any meal.

What is Jamie Oliver Olive Bread?

Jamie Oliver’s Olive Bread is a rustic, artisanal-style bread that incorporates chopped olives into the dough, giving it a Mediterranean flavor and a soft, chewy texture. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this bread is a satisfying project for bakers of all skill levels. It’s baked until golden and crispy on the outside, with a tender crumb inside, making it an ideal bread for snacking or as part of a meal.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Rich, Savory Flavor: Olives add a burst of briny, salty flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Only a handful of pantry staples are needed.
• Versatile: Great for sandwiches, dipping, or serving with a meal.
• Beginner-Friendly: No fancy techniques are needed.
• Homemade Delight: Freshly baked bread with a rustic charm.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Olive Bread

• 500g Strong Bread Flour: Provides structure and a chewy texture.
• 1 tsp Sea Salt: Enhances flavor.
• 7g Dried Yeast (1 packet): Leavens the dough.
• 325ml Warm Water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
• 100g Mixed Olives (pitted and roughly chopped): Adds savory flavor.
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Adds richness and keeps the bread moist.
• 1 tbsp Fresh Rosemary (chopped, optional): Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Olive Bread

Step 1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sea salt, and dried yeast. Make a well in the center and gradually pour in the warm water and olive oil, mixing with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.

Step 2. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step helps develop the gluten, giving the bread its structure.

Step 3. Incorporate the Olives

Gently flatten the dough and sprinkle the chopped olives (and rosemary, if using) over it. Fold the dough over and knead gently to incorporate the olives evenly throughout.

Step 4. Let the Dough Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it back in the mixing bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). If using a Dutch oven, place it in the oven while it preheats.

Step 6. Shape the Dough

Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release excess air. Shape it into a round loaf or oval, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in the preheated Dutch oven. Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow slashes on the top of the dough to help it expand while baking.

Step 7. Bake the Bread

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If using a Dutch oven, bake covered for the first 20 minutes, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to develop a crispy crust.

Step 8. Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your olive bread fresh, or dip in olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a true Mediterranean experience!

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Olive Bread

• Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar – A classic dipping combination.
• Cheese Platter – Complements the flavors of cheeses like feta, brie, or gouda.
• Charcuterie Board – Pairs well with cured meats and fresh fruit.
• Hummus or Tzatziki – Adds a creamy, flavorful contrast.
• Soup or Salad – Great with a side of tomato soup or Greek salad.
• Roasted Vegetables – Serves as a hearty accompaniment to veggie dishes.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Olive Bread

For the best results, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Warm Water for the Yeast – This helps activate the yeast for a good rise.
• Knead Well – Kneading creates the gluten structure, which makes the bread chewy.
• Let the Dough Rise Fully – Ensure it doubles in size before baking for lightness.
• Experiment with Olives – Try Kalamata, green, or mixed olives for varied flavor.
• Bake in a Dutch Oven for Crust – This traps steam, creating a crisp, golden crust.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Olive Bread

Try these ideas to switch up your olive bread:

• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the olives.
• Use Black Olives Only – For a more intense, savory flavor.
• Sprinkle with Sea Salt – Adds texture and flavor to the crust.
• Incorporate Garlic – Add roasted garlic cloves for extra depth.
• Add Parmesan Cheese – Mix grated Parmesan into the dough for a cheesy twist.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Olive Bread

• Store at Room Temperature – Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Longer Storage – Wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat for Freshness – Warm in the oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Olive Bread

• Oven Reheat – Place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Avoid Microwaving – This can make the bread chewy or tough.
• Slice Before Freezing – For easy reheating, slice before freezing, then reheat slices as needed.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Olive Bread Healthier?

• Use Whole Wheat Flour – Substitute half the bread flour for whole wheat to add fiber.
• Reduce Salt – Use a little less salt if needed.
• Add Flaxseed – Mix a tablespoon of ground flaxseed into the dough for extra nutrients.
• Use Low-Sodium Olives – Choose low-sodium or rinse olives to reduce sodium content.
• Add Herbs for Flavor – Rosemary, thyme, or oregano add flavor without extra fat or sugar.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

FAQs

Can I Use All-Purpose Flour Instead of Bread Flour in Jamie Oliver Olive Bread?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour in Jamie Oliver Olive Bread, though the texture may be slightly less chewy. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which creates a more structured, chewy bread, but all-purpose flour will still yield good results.

What Kind of Olives Are Best for Olive Bread?

Kalamata, green, or black olives work well in Olive Bread. Kalamata olives offer a briny, bold flavor, while green olives add a milder, buttery taste. You can also mix types for a more complex flavor profile.

How Do I Prevent the Bread from Becoming Too Salty?

To avoid overly salty bread, use low-sodium or rinsed olives, and be mindful of the amount of salt added to the dough. You can also reduce the salt in the recipe slightly if using particularly salty olives.

Can I Add Other Ingredients to Jamie Oliver Olive Bread?

Yes, you can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, fresh rosemary, roasted garlic, or even grated Parmesan to Jamie Oliver Olive Bread for extra flavor. Add these along with the olives during the kneading step to evenly incorporate them into the dough.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Olive Bread is a savory, artisanal-style loaf that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. With its golden crust, fluffy crumb, and bursts of olive flavor, this bread is perfect for dipping, serving with meals, or enjoying on its own. Try it with your favorite Mediterranean sides and enjoy homemade olive bread at its best!

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