Baking with Parsley

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Baking with Parsley: Recipes and Tips

Introduction

Parsley is often considered a garnish, but it can also be a wonderful ingredient in baked goods. Known for its fresh, slightly peppery flavor, parsley can enhance both sweet and savory recipes. In this blog post, we’ll explore some delicious recipes and handy tips for baking with parsley, helping you create unique and flavorful dishes.

Key Takeaways

  • Versatile Herb: Parsley can be used in both sweet and savory baked goods.
  • Flavor Enhancement: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor to your dishes.
  • Health Benefits: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall wellness.
  • Simple to Use: Easy to incorporate into your favorite baking recipes.

Recipes for Baking with Parsley

1. Parsley and Cheese Muffins

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs.
  4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  5. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
  8. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Lemon Parsley Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour, chopped parsley, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Roll the dough into a log shape, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  5. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  7. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Savory Parsley and Garlic Bread

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
  2. Add the warm water and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Add the chopped parsley and minced garlic, and knead until evenly distributed.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan.
  8. Let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Allow to cool before slicing.

Tips for Baking with Parsley

  1. Use Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley has a more potent flavor compared to dried. Ensure it’s washed and finely chopped before using.
  2. Balance Flavors: Parsley’s fresh flavor can enhance both sweet and savory dishes, so use it thoughtfully to balance other ingredients.
  3. Pair with Citrus and Cheese: Parsley pairs well with citrus fruits like lemon and cheeses like cheddar, adding a refreshing and savory contrast.
  4. Infuse Butter or Oil: For a subtle parsley flavor, infuse butter or oil with parsley before using it in your recipes.
  5. Experiment with Combinations: Mix parsley with other herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to create complex flavor profiles.
  6. Store Properly: Store fresh parsley in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel, and dried parsley in an airtight container away from light.

Conclusion

Baking with parsley is a wonderful way to add unique flavors and aromas to your dishes. Whether you’re making savory cheese muffins, lemon shortbread cookies, or garlic bread, parsley can elevate your baking to new heights. Try these recipes and tips to incorporate this versatile herb into your baking repertoire, and enjoy the delicious results.