Crispy Juniper-Infused Breadsticks
These delectable Crispy Juniper-Infused Breadsticks are a delightful twist on traditional grissini, inspired by a recipe from renowned chef Mario Batali. Using crushed juniper berries for a distinctive aromatic flair, these breadsticks are the perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or antipasto platters. Their pleasingly crispy texture paired with the subtle herbal notes of juniper will elevate your culinary experience. Baked to a golden-brown finish, they are not only a gourmet snack but also an elegant addition to any gathering or dinner party. Serve them warm for a crunchy, flavorful bite that is sure to impress your guests!
N/A
Servings
12
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
3/4 cup (warm)
flour
2 cups (plus more for dusting)
honey
1 tablespoon (none)
yeast
1/4 ounce (1 package)
extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons (none)
juniper berries
1/2 teaspoon (crushed or ground)
kosher salt
1 tablespoon (none)
cayenne pepper
to taste (for dusting)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of warm water, 1/2 cup of flour, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1/4 ounce of yeast. Stir well and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2
Once foamy, gradually add 1 1/2 cups of flour, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, the crushed juniper berries, and 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to the bowl. Mix the ingredients until a dough forms.
3
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in volume, approximately 1 hour.
5
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line 3 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
6
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
7
Roll each piece of dough into a rectangle measuring 6x10 inches. Cut the rectangles lengthwise into 1/2 inch wide strips.
8
Arrange the strips on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them. Dust the tops lightly with cayenne pepper for a touch of heat and let them rest for about 15 minutes until they puff slightly.
9
Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
10
Remove from the oven and allow to cool on baking sheets for a minute before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely and crisp up further before serving.
Nutrition Information
0.4g
Fat
1.8g
Carbs
0.2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Juniper-Infused Breadsticks?
They are a delightful twist on traditional grissini breadsticks featuring crushed juniper berries for a unique aromatic flair.
Who inspired this breadstick recipe?
The recipe is inspired by renowned chef Mario Batali.
What provides the distinctive aromatic flavor in these breadsticks?
Crushed or ground juniper berries provide the distinctive herbal and aromatic notes.
How much warm water is required for the dough?
The recipe requires 3/4 cup of warm water.
What is the total amount of flour used in the dough?
A total of 2 cups of flour is used: 1/2 cup for the initial yeast mixture and 1 1/2 cups added later.
How much honey is added to the recipe?
One tablespoon of honey is used to help activate the yeast and add flavor.
What type of yeast is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 ounce or one package of yeast.
How much extra virgin olive oil is included?
Three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil are mixed into the dough.
How long should the initial yeast and flour mixture sit?
It should sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
How long do I need to knead the dough?
The dough should be kneaded for 5 to 7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
What is the recommended rising time for the dough?
The dough should rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C).
How many baking sheets are needed for this recipe?
You will need 3 large baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
Into how many pieces should the dough be divided?
After rising, the dough should be divided into 4 equal pieces.
What are the dimensions for rolling out the dough?
Each piece of dough should be rolled into a 6x10 inch rectangle.
How wide should the breadstick strips be cut?
The strips should be cut to 1/2 inch in width.
What spice is used to dust the breadsticks?
Cayenne pepper is used for dusting to add a touch of heat.
How long should the breadsticks rest before baking?
They should rest on the baking sheets for about 15 minutes until they puff slightly.
What is the baking time for the breadsticks?
The breadsticks bake for approximately 15 minutes.
How do I know when the breadsticks are finished baking?
They are done when they appear golden brown and crisp.
What is the cooling procedure?
Cool on the sheets for a minute, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely and crisp up further.
Are these breadsticks vegan-friendly?
Yes, they are tagged as vegan-friendly, though note the use of honey which some vegans may substitute.
What can I serve these breadsticks with?
They are perfect for soups, salads, or antipasto platters.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 12 calories per serving.
How much fat is in these breadsticks?
Each serving contains 0.4g of fat.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains 0.2g of protein.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
Each serving has 1.8g of carbohydrates.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients used in this recipe.
What texture should I expect?
Expect a pleasingly crispy and crunchy texture.
Should the breadsticks be served warm or cold?
Serving them warm provides a flavorful and crunchy bite, though they can also be served at room temperature.