Here’s a tasty and easy recipe for Cheese Potato Bread:
Ingredients:
- 1 large potato (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or any cheese of your choice)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potato:
- Peel and chop the potato into chunks. Boil it in water until soft (about 10-15 minutes).
- Drain and mash the potato. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
3. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potato, softened butter, salt, and the foamy yeast mixture.
- Gradually add in the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms. You might need a bit more or less flour depending on your potato’s moisture content.
- Once combined, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to make it too dry.
4. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape and Add Cheese:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and knead it lightly to release the air.
- Gently fold in the shredded cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan, or form it into a round loaf for baking on a sheet.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the dough again with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up.
7. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the Bread:
- If desired, beat the egg and brush it over the top of the dough for a golden crust.
- Bake the bread for about 30-40 minutes, or until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and is golden brown on top.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy your cheesy, soft, and savory potato bread! It’s perfect for sandwiches, as a side, or just with a bit of butter.