Casatiello (Neapolitan Easter Bread)
Ingredients
- 4 cups flour
- 7 3/4 tablespoons lard
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- salt
- pepper
- water q.b.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- cheeses
- 1 1/8 pounds cured meats
- 5 whole eggs
Neapolitan Easter Bread: A Delicious Tradition for the Holiday Season
Jump to RecipeTo make the perfect Neapolitan Easter bread, you will need flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and yeast. These are the basic ingredients, but you can also add orange zest, vanilla extract, or anise seeds for extra flavor.
Start by mixing the flour, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add them to the dry ingredients. Slowly add melted butter and any additional flavorings to the mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Next, cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. This step is crucial as it allows the yeast to activate and helps the dough to rise.
Once the dough has risen, it's time to shape and decorate it. The traditional method involves shaping the dough into a braided wreath or a dove, symbolizing the resurrection of Jesus. You can also add dyed hard-boiled eggs to the dough, which represent new life and fertility.
After shaping the dough, let it rise for another 30 minutes. Then, brush it with an egg wash and sprinkle colored sprinkles or pearl sugar on top for a festive touch.
If you want to get creative and put a modern spin on the Neapolitan Easter bread, you can shape it into a nest and add chocolate eggs on top. You can also add raisins or candied fruit to the dough for extra sweetness and texture.
Once you have shaped and decorated the dough, let it rise for another 30 minutes. Then, brush it with an egg wash and bake it in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
After the bread has cooled, it's time to enjoy this delicious Easter tradition. Neapolitan Easter bread is typically served as a breakfast or brunch dish, accompanied by a cup of coffee or tea. It can also be enjoyed as a dessert, served with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
Whether you follow the traditional method or add your own twist, Neapolitan Easter bread is a must-try recipe for the holiday season. The combination of sweet dough and festive decorations make it a delightful treat for the entire family. So why not give this recipe a try and add a touch of Italian tradition to your Easter celebrations?
Ingredients