Wintertime Cilantro Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread Rx (RECIPE)

By Cal Orey

Winter Blues? 

This herb-alicious recipe is inspired by the bruschetta I was served and the cilantro I tossed due to ignorance.  

I was not enjoying the adventure of trying new herbs! Years later, when shopping at the local grocery store, I picked up a round loaf of artisan bread. It was wintertime when the body craves hot, comfort food such as read and cheese. I put together this easy recipe and wow! I was pleasantly surprised at the amazing flavors of the herbs and spices. I dedicate this cilantro treat to the woman who taught me to open my mind and mouth to new and interesting eats.

1/2 cup of European-style butter, melted

1/4 cup fresh parsley, fresh

1/4 cup cilantro, fresh

1 teaspoon garlic clove, fresh, minced

Ground black pepper to taste

1/4 cup each cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan chees shavings, chopped

1 small 12-inch by 12-inch round artisan sourdough bread

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a bowl, melt butter in microwave. Add parsley, cilantro, garlic, and pepper. Slice the top of the bread in horizontal and vertical lines to create crevices. Drizzle the butter herb mixture on top and allow it to drip into the cut holes. Stuff cheese pieces into the openings. Place bread onto foil and cover. Put on baking sheet. Bake 15 minutes until cheese is melted. Remove top foil. Turn up heat to 400 degrees F and back about 10 more minutes until cheese bubbles and top of bread is golden. Remove from oven. Serve immediately. 

Serves 6 to 8.

Rx Tidbits: Due to the antioxidant quercetin in cilantro, scientific research hints that cilantro may help guard against cancer and heart disease. This chemical compound is known to help bolster the immune system, too. Psst! This herb also may lessen anxiety.

The Healing Powers of Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures (Kensington, 2021)