๐ Asiago Herb Bread ๐ฟ
Asiago Herb Bread is a delicious and aromatic bread known for its rich, cheesy flavor and the subtle infusion of herbs. This bread is not only a treat for your taste buds but also carries a history of traditional bread-making techniques. Let’s dive into its details:
๐ History:
Asiago Herb Bread is inspired by the Italian town of Asiago, known for its flavorful Asiago cheese. While the bread itself may not have a lengthy historical record, it’s clear that the combination of cheese and herbs in bread-making has roots in Italian culinary traditions.
๐ง Components:
- Flour: Usually made with all-purpose or bread flour.
- Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast to leaven the dough.
- Water: Provides moisture and activates the yeast.
- Salt: For flavor and to control the fermentation process.
- Asiago Cheese: The star ingredient, contributing a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
- Herbs: A blend of fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for that delightful aroma and taste.
- Olive Oil: Adds moisture, a touch of richness, and a slightly crispy crust.
๐ฉโ๐ณ Steps to Prepare:
- Activate Yeast: Dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, grated Asiago cheese, and your chosen herbs.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until it’s doubled in size.
- Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased bread pan. Let it rise again for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to around 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
- Bake: Bake the bread for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
โฐ Preparation Time:
The total time for preparing Asiago Herb Bread, including rising and baking, typically ranges from 2.5 to 3 hours. The actual time can vary based on factors like room temperature, yeast activity, and the desired level of rising.
Enjoy your freshly baked Asiago Herb Bread with its delightful combination of cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs! ๐ง๐๐ฟ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asiago Herb Bread:
๐ Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a One Slice – 28g):
- Calories: 80
- Total Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 190mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 2g
๐ Health Information:
- Moderate Calories: One slice of Asiago Herb Bread contains about 80 calories, making it a reasonable part of a balanced diet.
- Low in Saturated Fat: The bread is relatively low in saturated fat, contributing to heart health.
- Moderate Sodium: The sodium content may vary depending on the recipe, but it’s generally moderate. Be mindful of sodium intake if you have dietary restrictions.
- Protein: It contains a small amount of protein, which is essential for muscle and tissue health.
While Asiago Herb Bread can be a delicious addition to your meals, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of calorie and sodium intake. You can also enhance its nutritional value by pairing it with healthy toppings like fresh vegetables or lean proteins. ๐๐ฅ๐ฝ๏ธ
