Murphys Bread

Murphys Bread

A Ritter House Hold Favorite

There is a little town called Murphys in Northern California.  It’s north of Sonora, in Calaveras Country (famous for the frog races), off of Hwy 4.  It’s a little “best kept secret” for wine lovers.  Within walking distance, there are a few dozen tasting rooms amidst little antique shops and restaurants.  Surrounding the “downtown,” acres of vineyards, historic homes and rolling hills cover the land.

So many memories there.  Here are just a few…

Outside of Twisted Oak Winery

Famous gold nugget at Ironstone Winery

Port Brownies with my lovely friend Ariana

A beautiful day for barrel tasting at Irish Winery

View point from our friend's cabin

But the first time Chris took me there, we had mid a week lunch (the place all to ourselves) at Alchemy.  The waitress brought us some complimentary cheesy garlic bread.  It was KILLER.  She snuck us the ingredients, not the recipe with amounts, but that was enough for me!

So home we went excited to give it a whirl.  I’ve used different chesses, breads, amounts of certain things- but figured I would give you the closest to the real deal as I could- feel free to improvise from there.  And warning- there is always some left over topping for the following day.  Because whatever you make WILL disappear.

Murphys Bread:

Veg and Herb

the dairy goods

Bread of your choice (some sort of flat bread works best to soak up butter)

1 ½ sticks of room temp unsalted butter

¼ c. grated sharp white cheddar cheese

¼ c. grated parmesan reggiano

3-4 cloves garlic

2-3 green onions

1 serrano chile (seeded)

¼ c. chopped fresh cilantro

½ c. corn

½ tsp. salt and pepper to taste

I prefer using a mixer vs. a food processor because the corn stays whole that way.  You can change up the heat by adding more garlic, or adding some of the seeds from the serrano chile.  I’ve also tried different cheeses too, but this is the best combo.

you can't just have one...

Combine all ingredients, corn being last.  Spread generously on bread.

Bake at 400 degrees until slightly golden brown and crispy (approx 8-10 min).  If using a toaster oven, you might just use the broiler setting (Chris is a crispy fan). 

Chris with the cam... 

Filet in Cabernet reduction, cauliflower with cheese sauce, with Murphys bread as the star of the show!

The sharp cheeses, combined with the sweet corn, and the fresh herbs, and the garlic and the serranos for some warmth… I could go on and on… but really you should just try it for yourself.  You won’t be disappointed!  Pair with favorite protein, or serve as a game day appetizer.