Casatiello

Casatiello

Casatiello is a traditional Italian Easter bread that originated in Naples. It is a savory bread filled with various ingredients, typically enjoyed during the Easter season. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, and preparation of Casatiello.

History

The history of Casatiello can be traced back to ancient Roman times when it was known as "panis quadratus." Over the centuries, the recipe evolved and became associated with Easter celebrations in Naples. The bread is traditionally prepared on Good Friday and enjoyed on Easter Sunday.

Ingredients

The ingredients used in Casatiello may vary slightly depending on personal preferences and regional variations. However, the basic ingredients include:

• Flour: Typically, all-purpose flour or bread flour is used to make the dough.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast is used to leaven the bread.
• Eggs: Whole eggs are an essential component of Casatiello. They can be hard-boiled and placed whole in the bread or beaten and incorporated into the dough.
• Cheese: A variety of cheeses can be used, such as Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or provolone. The cheese is usually cubed and mixed into the dough.
• Salami: Diced salami or other cured meats are often added to the bread for additional flavor.
• Lard: Lard or olive oil is used to enrich the dough and give it a tender texture.
• Pepper: Ground black pepper is commonly added to enhance the savory taste of the bread.

Preparation

To prepare Casatiello, follow these steps:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the eggs, cheese, salami, lard, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Gradually add water to the mixture while kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and shape it into a round loaf.
7. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. If desired, decorate the top of the bread with additional cheese, salami, or whole eggs.
9. Bake the Casatiello in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

See Also

• Italian cuisine
• Easter bread
• Neapolitan cuisine