This flavorful bread combines spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar cheese, baked to perfection in a Dutch oven for a crusty exterior and soft interior.
Ingredients
Dough
2.75cupsbread flour
1.5tspkosher salt
2cupsshredded cheddar cheese
1largejalapeno, diced
2cupswarm water
2.25tspinstant yeast(1 standard .25oz packet)
0.75cupshredded cheddar cheese(additional cheese for topping)
10round slicesjalapeno or more, to taste
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine bread flour, salt, 2 cups cheddar, and diced jalapenos. Set aside.
In a large bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Add flour mixture and stir until combined. Fold dough 8-10 times, cover, and let rise 1 hour.
Fold dough again 8-10 times, cover, and let rise 1 more hour. Preheat Dutch oven to 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes.
Turn dough onto floured surface, shape into a rough ball, score the top, and sprinkle with cheese and jalapenos. Transfer to parchment and place in hot Dutch oven.
Cover and bake for 30 minutes, then remove lid and bake another 20 minutes. Cool on wire rack for 1-2 hours before slicing.
Notes
This high hydration dough results in a crusty, airy bread. Be gentle when shaping and handling the dough.