Dijon Loaf
Dijon Loaf is a savory bread that combines the tangy flavor of Dijon mustard with hearty fillings like ham and two types of cheese. It's perfect for gatherings or as a delicious snack. The golden crust and soft interior make it a favorite for anyone who enjoys a unique twist on traditional bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set aside 1 cup flour.
- Mix the remaining flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl.
- Heat the Dijon mustard and butter to 130°F.
- Stir the mustard and butter mixture into the flour mixture.
- Stir in enough of the reserved flour to make a soft dough.
- Knead the dough for 4 minutes.
- Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Sprinkle the ham, Swiss cheese, Cheddar cheese, and dill pickles over the dough.
- Fold the dough in half and press the edges to seal.
- Place the loaf on a greased baking sheet and let it rise for 15 minutes.
- Brush the top with the beaten egg.
- Bake at 375°F until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can substitute the ham with turkey or leave it out for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, add a tablespoon of honey to the mustard mixture. Kneading the dough for longer can improve texture, so feel free to extend it to 6-8 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Dijon Loaf warm, sliced, with a side of mixed greens or a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes such as Depression Soup for a comforting combination. You can also enjoy it as a hearty sandwich by adding your favorite condiments.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap leftover Dijon Loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, unwrap the loaf, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps restore the crust's crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dijon Loaf contains roughly 1127 calories, with 33g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (71% of the Daily Value), protein (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1640mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular yeast instead of RapidRise yeast?
Yes, you can use regular yeast. However, you will need to allow the dough to rise longer, typically about 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size. This will change the texture slightly but will still yield a delicious loaf.
What can I substitute for the cheeses?
If you don't have Swiss or Cheddar cheese, you can use any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda. For a sharper flavor, try aged cheeses. Just ensure they melt well to maintain the loaf's texture.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
The loaf is done when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 190°F for a fully cooked loaf.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).