Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, honey, and olive oil. Mix with a spoon, then let sit until foamy, about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, which will make your knots rise beautifully.
- Once it's foamy, add in 2 1/2 cups of the flour, salt, garlic powder, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir with a spoon until the mixture comes together but remains sticky. The combination of the herbs with the dough begins to create an aromatic hint of what’s to come.
- Using your hands, knead the dough on a floured surface, incorporating the additional flour a little at a time. You might not need to use all of it, but the dough should be smooth and elastic after kneading for a few minutes.
- Lightly rub the large bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside, turning it to coat. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours. You want the dough to double in size, which is a beautiful sight.
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air and place it back on a floured surface. Roll it out into a large thin rectangle or oval. This is when your knots start taking shape.
- Slice the dough into strips. Take each strip and gently tie it into a knot, placing it on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all the dough is used. There’s something satisfying about shaping each knot by hand.
- Cover the knots with the towel again and let them sit in a warm place for 20 minutes. This second rise will make them light and fluffy.
- Bake the knots for 20 to 25 minutes or until they’re golden on top. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
- As soon as they come out of the oven, prepare your brown butter herb mixture. Heat a saucepan over medium heat, add the butter, and begin whisking. After 2 to 3 minutes, when the butter turns golden brown and you see small bits at the bottom, remove it from heat and quickly add in the minced garlic. Whisk for another 30 seconds to infuse the flavors.
- Stir in the fresh basil, parsley, and oregano into the brown butter. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the warm knots. Optionally, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Making these knots is an enjoyable process, and they’re perfect for sharing. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. You can also freeze unbaked knots before the second rise for later enjoyment. Enjoy them with pasta, soup, or on their own as a snack!
