Sure! Here's a simple recipe for homemade breadsticks:
### Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
### For Topping:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (like basil, oregano, thyme)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
### Instructions:
1. **Activate the Yeast:**
- In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. **Make the Dough:**
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or knead by hand on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. **First Rise:**
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
4. **Shape the Breadsticks:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough to release the air.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a long, thin rope, about 8-10 inches long.
- Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
5. **Second Rise:**
- Cover the breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for about 15-20 minutes.
6. **Bake:**
- Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
7. **Add Toppings:**
- While the breadsticks are baking, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried Italian herbs.
- As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them with the melted butter mixture.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
8. **Serve:**
- Serve the breadsticks warm. They are perfect on their own or as a side with soup, salad, or pasta.
