Ingredients:
- 500g bread flour
- 25g fresh yeast
- 250ml lukewarm water
- 100g lard
- 1 tsp salt
- 150g grated Parmesan cheese
- 150g diced salami
- 150g diced cooked ham
- 3 eggs
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in lukewarm water, then set it aside for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, lard, and salt. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture and mix well until a dough forms.
Step 2: Kneading and Rising
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Adding the Fillings
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, diced salami, and diced ham evenly over the dough. Fold the dough over itself, sealing the edges to create a filled loaf shape.
Step 4: Final Rising and Baking
Place the filled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat 2 eggs and brush them over the top surface of the casatiello to give it a glossy finish. Let the casatiello rise for another 30 minutes. Before baking, make a small hole in the center of the loaf using your finger or the handle of a wooden spoon. This hole will help the casatiello bake evenly.
Bake the casatiello in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. If the top starts browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 5: Enjoying Your Casatiello
Once the casatiello is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Traditionally, casatiello is served at room temperature. Slice it and serve it as a delightful addition to your Easter brunch or as a tasty snack any time of the day!
With this step-by-step guide, you can easily make your own traditional Neapolitan casatiello. Its rich flavors and aromas will impress your family and friends. Enjoy creating this Italian masterpiece and buon appetito!