Chinese Cheese Bread Recipe: A Step-by-Step Baking Guide on a Classic Snack

Cheese bread is a popular type of bread that is made by mixing cheese with bread dough. The cheese used in Chinese cheese bread is usually Asiago cheese, which is a type of Italian cheese that is known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavour. This delicious bread combines the savoury taste of cheese with the soft, fluffy texture of bread for a dish that's sure to impress.

The history and origin of Chinese cheese bread can be traced back to the Shandong province of China, where it has been a popular snack for centuries. While the traditional recipe calls for a variety of Chinese spices and seasonings, modern variations often include cheese for an added burst of flavour.

Making Chinese cheese bread is surprisingly easy, requiring just a few essential ingredients and a bit of patience. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favourite in your household. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious it can be?

Key Takeaways

• Chinese cheese bread is a unique and flavourful bread recipe that combines the savoury taste of cheese with the soft, fluffy texture of bread.
• The recipe has its origins in the Shandong province of China and has been a popular snack for centuries.
• Making Chinese cheese bread is easy and requires just a few essential ingredients. The addition of seafood, such as shrimp or crab, can add an extra burst of flavour to the recipe.

History and Origin of Chinese Cheese Bread

Chinese cuisine is known for its diverse range of dishes, from savoury soups to sweet desserts. One of the lesser-known but equally delicious dishes is Chinese cheese bread. The origin of Chinese cheese bread can be traced back to the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), where it was first introduced by foreign traders and travellers.

In recent years, Chinese cheese bread has become increasingly popular in China and other parts of the world. It is often served as a breakfast item or as a snack. The bread is usually soft and fluffy, with a slightly crispy crust.

If you're looking to add a unique twist to your Chinese cheese bread recipe, you can consider adding seafood to it. For example, you can add shrimp or crab meat to the bread dough to give it a seafood flavour. Alternatively, you can serve the bread with a seafood dip or spread.

Chinese cheese bread is a delicious and unique dish that has a rich history and a bright future. With its combination of cheese and bread, it is sure to please both cheese lovers and bread lovers alike.

Essential Ingredients

When it comes to making Chinese cheese bread, there are a few essential ingredients that you'll need to have on hand. Here are some of the key ingredients that you should consider:

Choosing the Right Flour

Flour is the foundation of any bread recipe, and Chinese cheese bread is no exception. All-purpose flour is the most commonly used type of flour in bread recipes, but you can also use bread flour or cake flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which can help to create a chewier texture. Cake flour, on the other hand, has a lower protein content and can create a lighter, more delicate texture.

Types of Cheese for Flavour

Cheese is the star ingredient in Chinese cheese bread, and there are several types of cheese that you can use to add flavour. Cheddar and asiago cheese are popular choices, but you can also use shredded cheese or any other type of cheese that you like. The key is to choose a cheese that has a strong flavour that will complement the other ingredients in the bread.

Yeast and Leavening Agents

Yeast is what makes bread rise, and there are two types of yeast that you can use in Chinese cheese bread: active dry yeast and instant yeast. Active dry yeast needs to be dissolved in water before it can be used, while instant yeast can be added directly to the dry ingredients. You can also use baking powder or baking soda as a leavening agent, but yeast is the traditional choice for bread recipes.

Proposed addition: If you want to add seafood to your Chinese cheese bread, you could try using shrimp or crab meat. Simply chop the seafood into small pieces and mix it in with the other ingredients before baking. This can add an extra layer of flavour and texture to the bread, making it even more delicious.

Step-by-Step Baking Guide

If you're looking to make Chinese cheese bread, then you're in luck! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you bake this delicious treat.

Preparing the Dough

First, preheat your oven to 180°C. Then, in a large mixing bowl, combine 350g bread flour, 1 ½ tsp instant yeast, 50g brown sugar, 35g milk powder, and 1 tsp salt. Mix well.

Next, add in 1 whisked egg, 35g butter, and 80g water. Mix until the dough forms. You can use a dough hook on a stand mixer to knead the dough, or you can knead it by hand.

Once the dough is smooth and elastic, add in 150g grated cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese. Knead the dough again until the cheese is evenly distributed.

Shaping and Seasoning

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface with a rolling pin until it's about 1/2 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into small buns or rolls.

If you want to add some extra flavour, you can sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped scallions on top of the buns.

Baking to Perfection

Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the buns with egg wash (1 tablespoon of whisked egg + 1 tsp water).

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. If you want a deeper golden brown colour, bake them for a few minutes longer.

And that's it! Your Chinese cheese bread rolls are ready to be enjoyed. If you want to get creative, you can even add some seafood to the recipe. For example, you could try adding some chopped shrimp or crab meat to the dough before baking.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Complementary Dishes

Chinese Cheese Bread is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course. It pairs well with a variety of complementary dishes, including soups, salads, and stir-fry dishes. For a light and refreshing pairing, try serving Chinese Cheese Bread with a simple cucumber salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, you could serve it with a hearty bowl of hot and sour soup for a more filling meal.

If you're looking for a more substantial pairing, consider serving Chinese Cheese Bread alongside a grilled or stir-fried seafood dish. The creamy, savoury flavour of the bread pairs well with the delicate sweetness of fresh seafood. Try serving it with grilled prawns or scallops, or stir-fry some squid or clams with soy sauce and green onions for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Condiments and Toppings

To enhance the flavour of your Chinese Cheese Bread, consider adding some condiments or toppings. A pinch of black pepper can add a subtle spice to the bread, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a nutty flavour and texture. For a savoury twist, try topping your bread with some grilled or sautéed potato slices, or sprinkle some chopped scallions on top for a fresh and fragrant flavour.

For a sweet and savoury combination, try serving your Chinese Cheese Bread with a dollop of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey. Alternatively, you could serve it with a side of soy sauce for a savoury and salty flavour. Whatever toppings or condiments you choose, be sure to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.

When it comes to serving and pairing Chinese Cheese Bread, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing snack or a hearty and satisfying meal, this delicious dish is sure to impress.

Storing and Freshness Tips

Once you have baked your Chinese Cheese Bread, it's important to store it properly to keep it fresh. Here are some tips to help you keep your bread fresh for longer:

• Storage: You can store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. It's best to keep the bread at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat.
• Freezing: If you want to keep the bread for a longer time, you can freeze it. Wrap the bread in parchment paper and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. The bread can be frozen for up to three months.
• Freshness: To keep the bread fresh, it's best to consume it within three days of baking. After that, it may start to lose its freshness and flavour.

If you want to add some seafood to your Chinese Cheese Bread recipe, you can try adding some cooked prawns or crab meat. These will add a delicious seafood flavour to the bread. Just make sure to chop the seafood into small pieces before adding it to the dough.

When it comes to nutritional information, Chinese Cheese Bread is generally high in carbohydrates and fat due to the cheese and bread flour. However, adding seafood to the recipe can add some extra protein and nutrients to the bread.

Overall, following these storage and freshness tips will help you enjoy your Chinese Cheese Bread for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make cheese bread with a traditional Chinese twist?

To make cheese bread with a traditional Chinese twist, you can use a combination of ingredients such as milk, butter, sugar, yeast, flour, and cheese. You can also add seafood like shrimp or crab meat to give it a unique flavour.

What's the simplest way to bake Chinese cheese bread at home?

The simplest way to bake Chinese cheese bread at home is to use a no-knead recipe. You can mix together flour, yeast, salt, cheese, and water, and let it rise before baking. You can also add other ingredients like garlic or herbs to give it a more flavourful taste.

Which recipe is considered the best for authentic Chinese cheese bread?

There are many recipes for authentic Chinese cheese bread, but the best one is usually the simplest. You can use a basic recipe that includes flour, yeast, cheese, and water, and add your own twist to it. Some people like to add seafood or other ingredients like ham or herbs to give it a unique flavour.

Can you share a recipe for a ham and cheese bun like those found in Chinese bakeries?

Sure, here's a recipe for a ham and cheese bun like those found in Chinese bakeries:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, milk, water, sugar, and yeast until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
5. Roll out the dough into small circles and fill each with ham and cheese.
6. Brush the edges with beaten egg and seal the buns.
7. Place the buns on a baking sheet and brush the tops with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

What are the key ingredients in a classic Chinese ham and egg bun?

The key ingredients in a classic Chinese ham and egg bun are flour, yeast, sugar, salt, water, ham, and egg. Some recipes also include other ingredients like green onion or sesame seeds.

How many calories are typically in a Chinese-style ham and cheese bun?

A Chinese-style ham and cheese bun typically contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour and low-fat cheese to reduce the calorie count.