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Indulging in Vegan Garlic Knots: A Tasty Treat for Everyone

Garlic knots are a beloved staple in Italian-American cuisine, cherished for their fluffy texture and irresistible garlic flavour. Traditionally made with dough, garlic, and butter, these delightful bites are often enjoyed as an appetiser or party snack. However, many people are discovering that you can create equally scrumptious vegan garlic knots without compromising on taste or texture. Let’s delve into the wonderful world of vegan garlic knots and how you can easily make this delicious treat at home.

The Allure of Garlic Knots

What makes garlic knots so appealing? Perhaps it’s the way the dough transforms into fluffy knots before being bathed in aromatic garlic and herbs. The golden, crisp exterior provides a satisfying crunch, while the soft, airy interior offers a delightful contrast. In their traditional form, garlic knots are always slathered in melted butter and fresh garlic, which can pose a challenge for those following a vegan diet. Fortunately, with a few clever substitutes, there’s no need to miss out on this culinary delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make vegan garlic knots, you’ll require some basic ingredients, many of which you may already have on hand. Here’s a simple list:

• For the Dough:

  • 500g strong white bread flour
  • 7g instant yeast
  • 10g salt
  • 300ml warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the Garlic Topping:
  • 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 80ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • A pinch of salt
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of heat

Method

1. Prepare the Dough:
   Begin by mixing the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the warm water and instant yeast, allowing it to sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy. Slowly add the yeast mixture to the flour, followed by the olive oil. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp tea towel, and leave it to rise in a warm environment for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Shape the Knots:
   Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C for fan ovens) or 425°F. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. On a floured surface, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20-25cm in length. Tie each rope into a knot, tucking the ends underneath. Place the knots on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have enough space to expand.

3. Prepare the Garlic Topping:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, oregano, and salt. Brush this mixture generously over each garlic knot, making sure to capture any of the fragrant garlic bits as well.

4. Bake:
   Place the prepared knots in the oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown. The aroma of baking garlic knots is sure to fill your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby.

5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once out of the oven, allow the knots to cool slightly. Serve them warm, drizzled with any remaining garlic oil and perhaps accompanied by a side of marinara sauce for dipping. These knots are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

The Versatility of Garlic Knots

What makes vegan garlic knots truly fantastic is their versatility. You can easily customise them by adding various herbs or spices to the dough, or even experimenting with different toppings. For a cheesy twist, consider incorporating nutritional yeast into the garlic oil mixture. Those who enjoy a bit of heat may wish to add some crushed red pepper flakes to the topping for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Vegan garlic knots are not just for those adhering to a plant-based diet; they are a delightful treat for anyone looking for a delicious snack that tantalises the taste buds. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these knots are perfect for gatherings, game nights, or simply as a comforting snack enjoyed at home. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands doughy, and treat yourself to an indulgent batch of vegan garlic knots that will have everyone asking for more!