Step 1

In a bowl (or bowl of an electric mixer), combine the milk and hot water so that the milk is lukewarm in temperature. Add the melted butter, yeast, salt, and sugar and stir.

Step 2

Add the bread flour and mix until just incorporated about 30 seconds. Add the herbs and seasonings and mix until the dough begins to come away from the sides of the bowl and starts to form a ball.

Step 3

Knead the dough for about 6 minutes with oiled hands or by using the dough hook of an electric mixer until the dough is smooth.

Step 4

Lightly drizzle the ball with olive oil, place in a clean bowl, cover with plastic wrap and for about 1-2 hours in a warm spot in your kitchen.

Step 5

When the dough has doubled in size, preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly brush an 8 1/2" x 4 1/2" loaf pan with oil.

Step 6

Punch down the dough, transfer to a floured working surface, lightly knead and form the dough into a log. Place it seam side down on the prepared loaf pan. Brush the loaf with melted butter and sprinkle top with fleur de sel. Let it rise a second time for 30 minutes.

Step 7

Place the loaf in the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature of the loaf should be about 190°F. Remove from the oven, and let it rest in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, about 2 hours, before slicing.