Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful bread that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Asiago cheese bread recipe is your answer. It's the perfect side dish for any meal, a delightful appetizer, or even a satisfying snack on its own. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to enjoy this quick dinner idea that's both healthy and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup grated Asiago cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic, resulting in a light and airy bread.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it's too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese
Stir in the grated Asiago cheese. The warmth from the dough will help melt the cheese slightly, distributing it evenly throughout the bread.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf or a rectangular shape, depending on your preference. Place the shaped dough in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the dough with melted butter. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy the irresistible aroma and flavor of your homemade Asiago cheese bread!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of Asiago and Parmesan cheese.
- Add herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it a garlic bread: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the dough along with the cheese.
- Use different cheese: Feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or provolone.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Asiago cheese bread recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. The best recipes often involve simple techniques and high-quality ingredients, resulting in an unforgettable taste experience. Enjoy!