Description
This Chili Crunch Garlic Bread recipe offers a delightful twist on classic garlic bread by adding a spicy, crunchy chili topping. Perfect as a side or appetizer, this bread features a savory garlic butter spread baked to golden perfection, then drenched in a flavorful chili crunch made with chili oil, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for an irresistible combination of spice and texture.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Chili Crunch
- 2 tablespoons chili oil (or more for extra spice)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Bread
- 1 large loaf of French bread or baguette
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the bread.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until fully combined to create a flavorful garlic butter spread.
- Slice Bread: Carefully slice the French bread or baguette in half lengthwise, creating two long halves with cut sides facing up.
- Spread Garlic Butter: Evenly spread the prepared garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread halves to ensure each bite is full of flavor.
- Bake Bread: Place the bread halves on the lined baking sheet with the cut side up. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil on top for extra crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the butter has melted thoroughly into the bread.
- Make Chili Crunch: While the bread bakes, combine chili oil, sesame seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, soy sauce, and honey (if using) in a small bowl. Stir well to combine the spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
- Add Topping: Once the garlic bread is hot and out of the oven, generously drizzle the chili crunch mixture over the bread to coat it with a spicy, crunchy layer.
- Serve: Slice the bread into servings and serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of chili oil and crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Using fresh garlic will yield a stronger garlic flavor; roasted garlic can be used for a milder, sweeter taste.
- If you prefer, substitute the French bread with ciabatta or sourdough for different textures.
- The honey in the chili crunch topping is optional but helps balance the heat with a slight sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.