One of the things I miss most since living in Norway is Panera Bread. There is nothing like it here, and there is no Tomato Basil bread. Thus I was forced to make it myself, and it turns out it is really easy. After some googling and experimenting we were also able to get make the sauce they put on it as well. And like any true blog that includes a food section, I have taken photos of every step : )
Ingredients for Bread:
3/4 cup warm water
1/4 cup fresh basil, minced (substitute with 2 tablespoons dried)
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/8-1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 1/2-2 3/4 cups bread flour
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Stir in basil, Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, sugar, oil, salt, pepper flakes and 2 cups flour. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a stiff dough. It will look a little something like this (or at least mine did)
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 3-5 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. When that is done you punch the dough down and knead for 1 minute. Shape it into a loaf and place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
Once that is all done, cut a large "X" in top of loaf. Bake at 375° for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool.
To make the sauce combine a bit of worcestershire sauce (only a few drops), ketchup, mayonnaise, and dijon mustard. I would tell you more about the proportions but it really depends on your taste and how strong your dijon is. For me equal portions works out fine. It will be this color when you are done
To make the sandwich you just add some bacon, turkey, gouda cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes!
