Breadsticks & Sauce Recipe
Breakfast basket w/ side of tomato sauce (size 6 or 12)
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Ingredients
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Breadsticks (makes 12)
Tomato Dipping Sauce (approx. 2 cups)
Method
Breadsticks (makes 12)
- 1
Prepare dough
In a large mixing bowl combine 3 cups flour, 1 tsp instant yeast, 1 tsp sugar and 1 tsp fine salt. Whisk to distribute. Make a well and add 1 cup warm water (about 105–115°F/40–46°C) and 2 tbs olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
- 2
Knead
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead 4–5 minutes on medium-low with the dough hook. Add up to 2 tbs more flour only if dough is too sticky.
- 3
- 4
Shape breadsticks
Punch the dough down gently and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 1.75 oz / 50 g each). Roll each piece into a 7–8 inch long thin rope about 1/2 inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet leaving 1 inch between sticks.
- 5
Second rise
Cover the shaped sticks loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let rise 20–30 minutes until slightly puffy.
- 6
Preheat oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven.
- 7
Season and bake
In a small bowl combine 2 tbs melted butter, 1 tsp minced garlic, 2 tbs grated Parmesan and 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning. Brush the tops of the risen breadsticks with half of the butter mixture. Sprinkle lightly with 1/2 tsp coarse salt. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until golden-brown and cooked through.
- 8
Tomato Dipping Sauce (approx. 2 cups)
- 9
Sauté aromatics
Heat 1 tbs olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup finely minced onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to brown the garlic.
- 10
Build sauce
Stir in 1 tbs tomato paste and cook 1 minute to deepen flavor. Add 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp sugar, 3/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir to combine.
- 11
Adjust consistency and simmer
Add 2 tbs water or stock if you prefer a slightly thinner dipping consistency. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors meld.
- 12
Finish and taste
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (more salt, sugar or red pepper flakes to preference). Stir in 1 tbs finely chopped fresh parsley if using. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving warm alongside breadsticks.