Ingredients:
- 500g bread flour
- 100g lard or butter
- 9g active dry yeast
- 300ml lukewarm water
- 200g diced salami
- 100g diced pancetta
- 200g diced provolone cheese
- 4 large eggs
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and lard (or butter) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Add the dissolved yeast mixture to the flour mixture and mix well. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a round cake tin.
Step 6: Punch down the risen dough to remove any air bubbles. Divide it into two equal parts – one slightly larger than the other.
Step 7: Roll out the larger portion of the dough and use it to line the bottom of the cake tin and form the sides.
Step 8: Layer the diced salami, pancetta, and provolone cheese over the dough in the cake tin.
Step 9: Beat 3 eggs in a separate bowl and pour over the filling in the cake tin. Add salt to taste.
Step 10: Roll out the smaller portion of the dough to create a lid for the Casatiello. Place the lid over the filling, sealing the edges with the bottom dough.
Step 11: Make a small hole in the center of the lid using a knife and insert a whole egg into it. This is a traditional decoration for Casatiello.
Step 12: Allow the Casatiello to rise in a warm place for another 30 minutes.
Step 13: Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of the Casatiello for a glossy finish.
Step 14: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 15: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before transferring the Casatiello to a wire rack.
Step 16: Serve the Casatiello warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Casatiello is a delightful Italian Easter recipe that will surely impress your family and friends. Its delicious combination of flavors makes it a standout dish on any Easter table. By following the easy steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to cook Casatiello just like a traditional Italian nonna. So, bring a taste of Italy to your Easter celebration this year and create lasting memories with this mouthwatering treat.