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The Neapolitan Casatiello is a Italian Easter bread that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. This savory bread is typically enjoyed during Easter celebrations in Naples, Italy. It is made with a rich dough filled with various types of cured meats and cheese. If you want to try your hand at preparing this wonderful Easter treat, follow these steps to create your very own Neapolitan Casatiello.
Ingredients:
– 500 grams of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of lukewarm water
– 25 grams of fresh yeast
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
– 200 grams of diced salami
– 200 grams of diced ham
– 150 grams of diced provolone cheese
– 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 eggs
– Freshly ground black pepper
– 1 egg for egg wash
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in lukewarm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and extra virgin olive oil. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough begins to form.
3. Transfer the dough to a clean, floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for about 1 hour in a warm place until it doubles in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round baking pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
5. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Place it on a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Sprinkle the diced salami, ham, provolone cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the dough. Crack 2 eggs on top and season with freshly ground black pepper.
7. Starting from one of the long sides, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, ensuring that the filling is well enclosed. Pinch the ends together to seal the bread.
8. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the prepared baking pan, forming a circle. Make sure the sealed ends are on the bottom.
9. Crack an egg into a small bowl and beat it. Brush the beaten egg on top of the dough to give it a shiny glaze.
10. Bake the Casatiello in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the Neapolitan Casatiello from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
The Neapolitan Casatiello is a delightful Easter tradition that you can bring to your own home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Serve it as a centerpiece on your Easter table or enjoy it as a savory snack throughout the holiday season. The combination of flavorful cured meats and cheese enclosed in the soft, fluffy bread offers a of Italy that will have your loved ones craving for more. Buon appetito!
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