Asiago Cheese Bread

Asiago Cheese Bread Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Asiago Cheese Bread is a delightful and savory bread that combines the rich, nutty flavor of Asiago cheese with the soft, fluffy texture of homemade bread. This recipe is perfect for cheese lovers and those looking for a special homemade bread that's a step above the ordinary. Whether you're serving it as a side dish, using it for sandwiches, or simply enjoying it with a pat of butter, Asiago Cheese Bread is sure to impress with its delicious flavor and beautiful presentation.

History

The tradition of incorporating cheese into bread dates back centuries and spans many cultures. Asiago cheese, originating from the Veneto and Trentino regions of Italy, has been produced since the year 1000. Over time, the idea of adding Asiago cheese to bread likely emerged as a delicious way to enjoy this beloved cheese. The recipe for Asiago Cheese Bread as we know it today has evolved from simple cheese bread recipes, incorporating specific techniques and ingredients to highlight the unique flavor of Asiago cheese.

Ingredients

3.75 cups bread flour
1 envelope of active dry yeast
1.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of pepper
1.25 cups of milk
2 tbsp of unsalted butter, cut up
1.25 cups of shredded asiago cheese
1 large egg

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine 1.5 cups of flour, yeast, salt, and pepper.
In a saucepan, heat milk and butter until the butter is melted.
Stir the milk mixture into the flour mixture until smooth.
Stir in 1 cup of cheese and 2 cups of flour to make a soft dough.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface.
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, approximately 10 minutes.
Oil a bowl, add the dough, and turn to coat.
Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in volume.
Coat a round cake pan with cooking spray.
Punch down the dough.
Form the dough into a 6-inch round and place it in the pan.
Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in volume.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
In a bowl, beat the egg. Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheese.
Bake for 35 minutes or until the crust is golden.
Let the bread cool. Serve it warm or cooled. Cut the bread into slices and serve with butter. This recipe makes 1 loaf of Asiago Cheese Bread.

Variations

Add herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the dough for additional flavors.
Use a mix of Asiago and Parmesan cheeses for a more complex cheese flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Asiago Cheese Bread turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality, freshly shredded Asiago cheese for the best flavor.

- Ensure your milk and butter mixture is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

- Knead the dough thoroughly to develop the gluten, which will give the bread its structure.

- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for the best results.

- Brushing the dough with an egg wash before baking will give the bread a beautiful golden crust.

Serving Suggestions

Asiago Cheese Bread can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and pasta dishes. For a simple appetizer, serve slices of this bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe involves techniques such as kneading to develop the gluten in the dough and proofing to allow the yeast to leaven the bread. Baking at a high temperature initially helps to create a golden crust while keeping the interior soft.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Asiago cheese is not available, substitute with Parmesan or aged Cheddar for a similar flavor profile.

- Whole milk can be replaced with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version, though this may alter the flavor slightly.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Asiago Cheese Bread can be prepared ahead of time and allowed to rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. This not only saves time but can also enhance the flavor of the bread.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the bread on a wooden cutting board for a rustic look, or slice and arrange it in a basket lined with a linen cloth for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Asiago Cheese Bread pairs beautifully with red wines such as Chianti or Merlot, which complement the rich cheese flavor. It also goes well with light, crisp white wines for a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Asiago Cheese Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Asiago Cheese Bread contains approximately 250 calories. The calories are primarily sourced from the carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Asiago Cheese Bread contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe is bread flour, which provides the structure and texture of the bread.

Fats

Asiago Cheese Bread contains about 9 grams of fat per serving. The fats in this recipe come from the unsalted butter and Asiago cheese, both of which contribute to the bread's rich flavor and moist texture.

Proteins

Each serving of Asiago Cheese Bread offers around 10 grams of protein. The protein content is derived from the bread flour, milk, and Asiago cheese, making this bread a satisfying and nourishing option.

Vitamins and minerals

Asiago Cheese Bread is a source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the cheese and milk, as well as iron and B vitamins from the bread flour. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the bread.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (milk, cheese) and gluten (bread flour). Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should avoid this bread or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Asiago Cheese Bread is a flavorful and satisfying option that provides carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, it also contains allergens like dairy and gluten, which some individuals may need to avoid.

Summary

Asiago Cheese Bread is a versatile and flavorful bread that's perfect for any occasion. With its rich cheese flavor and soft, fluffy texture, it's sure to become a favorite. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and enjoy this delicious bread with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Asiago Cheese Bread. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through a cookbook that had been handed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, a picture of a golden loaf of bread studded with pockets of melted cheese caught my eye. My mouth watered at the thought of warm, cheesy bread straight out of the oven.

I quickly scanned the ingredients list and instructions, taking mental notes of what I needed to make this delicious bread. Asiago cheese, yeast, flour, and a few other basic ingredients were all that was required. I knew I had to give this recipe a try.

The next day, I set to work in my kitchen, gathering the necessary ingredients and preheating the oven. As I mixed the dough and kneaded it until it was smooth and elastic, the familiar scent of yeast filled the air. It reminded me of my grandmother, who had taught me how to bake bread when I was just a little girl.

As the dough rose and doubled in size, I grated the Asiago cheese and folded it into the dough, creating a marble effect of cheese throughout. The anticipation of how this bread would turn out was almost unbearable.

Finally, I placed the loaf in the oven and watched eagerly as it baked to a perfect golden brown. The smell of melted cheese and freshly baked bread wafted through the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation. As I pulled the loaf out of the oven and let it cool slightly, I couldn't resist tearing off a piece and taking a bite.

The taste was heavenly. The rich, nutty flavor of the Asiago cheese combined with the soft, chewy texture of the bread was a match made in culinary heaven. I knew immediately that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this Asiago Cheese Bread countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil to give it a little extra flair. Other times, I bake it in mini loaves for a fun twist on the classic recipe.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that warm summer day when I first discovered it in my grandmother's old cookbook. I can almost hear her voice guiding me through the steps, her hands gently shaping the dough as she taught me the art of bread baking.

As I sit here now, enjoying a slice of warm Asiago Cheese Bread fresh out of the oven, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary traditions that have been passed down through the generations. This recipe is more than just a delicious bread - it is a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and care that went into each and every dish my grandmother made.

I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will learn to make this bread and carry on the tradition of sharing good food with those they love. For now, I will savor each bite and cherish the memories that this simple loaf of bread brings to mind.