One of the biggest myths about going vegan (or vegetarian) is that there’s “nothing” to eat. For an omnivore who is used to eating meat and dairy multiple times a day, a plant-based diet can take some getting used to. Even for a lacto-ovo vegetarian (someone who doesn’t eat meat but still eats dairy and eggs), learning to give up milk and cheese can be even tougher than an omelet. For pescatarians, no longer eating fish and other seafood may need some time and discipline.

So when does the transition get easier? When the myth is debunked about not being able to eat these foods. Everything that can be eaten on an omnivore diet has a plant-based equivalent. Will it taste a little different? Yes. Is it good? Arguably, the 79 million vegans in the world would say vegan food is good, especially if you know how to cook it. And there are plenty of choices to try first, including jalapeño cheddar artisan bread recipe that tastes amazing with a bowl of pasta, spinach dip or soups. Find out how to make vegan jalapeño cheddar artisan bread recipe here.

How To Make Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1-½ teaspoons of salt
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1 packet (2-¼ teaspoons) of active dry yeast
• 1-¼ cups of warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1-½ cups of shredded vegan cheddar cheese
• 2-3 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped
• (optional, for dusting) 1 tablespoon of cornmeal
• (optional, for extra flavor) 1 tablespoon of garlic powder or onion powder

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir to dissolve.
2. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water, and let it sit for five to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
4. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture along with olive oil.
5. Stir to combine until the dough begins to form.
6. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface, and knead it for about eight to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. (If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon more flour.)
7. Once the dough is smooth, fold and evenly distribute the shredded vegan cheddar and chopped jalapeños.
8. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
9. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for one to two hours until it doubles in size.
10. After the yeast has effectively risen, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
11. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf.
12. Sprinkle cornmeal on a baking sheet or a pizza stone, then place the shaped dough onto it.
13. Cover the dough again, and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
14. While the dough is rising, preheat the oven to 450°F.
15. After the second rise, use a sharp knife to make a few slashes (or draw a shallow cross) on the top of the dough. (This helps the bread expand as it bakes.)
16. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
17. Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Understanding How Yeast and Flour Make the Bread Rise

Yeast is a single-celled living organism. In addition to helping bread rise, yeast also transforms sugar and starch into carbon dioxide and alcohol through fermentation. However, there’s some confusion about whether yeast being a “living” organism means it’s no longer vegan. It is. This microorganism is not derived from animals. Yeast is even used in some dairy-free cheese alternatives.

All-purpose flour does not contain animal derivatives either and is made from wheat grain. Very rarely, flour may include bone marrow or honey, but the nutrition label will make that clear. White or refined flour does not include bran nor the germ of the plant. Whole wheat flour includes both, and it is higher in protein.

When yeast and flour are combined together and with water, the yeast produces carbon dioxide. Gluten then traps the gas to make it into the stretchy bubble that bakers want to see; this is when the dough starts to look inflated like a balloon. If the yeast does not make the flour rise, this may be a bad package and it’s time to start again with a new pack so the bread isn’t too dense to enjoy. With a working package of yeast, the oven heat will solidify the dough and maintain that airy texture commonly seen in fresh bread.

Growing Jalapeños at Home

While jalapeños are available in grocery stores for less than $1, they can also be grown in a home garden. However, the fruits of a pepper plant do require a warm, sunny environment with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. The growing process can start inside for the first 10 weeks before the last frost. Use a seed tray and light soil mix to plant them. After the last frost, wait until nighttime temperatures are consistently 55°F. Then, move the fruit outside. Space the jalapeño plants approximately 12-18 inches apart in rows that are approximately two to three feet apart. The soil should never be soggy but consistently moist, and water the jalapeños one to two times per week. Add mulch around the area to retain moisture and avoid weeds from growing around the fruit.

When jalapeños start growing, make sure to have a stake because they can be top-heavy. Prune lower leaves so more fruit has time to grow. Jalapeño plants should be ready in 70 to 85 days. They’re ready to pick when they’re firm, and in their recognizable bright red or green. And the fruit will continue to grow all season. Pick them, and more will grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can the bread be stored at room temperature?

The vegan jalapeño cheddar artisan bread recipe ingredients are safe to leave at room temperature for up to three days. However, if the bread will take longer to eat, put it in a sealed container or bag to store in a fridge. It should stay fresh for up to a week.

What vegan cheese is used for the filling?

Choose your favorite brand, ideally one that tastes good on a vegan grilled cheese or pizza so you’re familiar with a warm version of it already. Some vegan cheeses may taste better cold and not be as appealing when melted, but this is a personal palate decision. You can also make vegan cashew cheese if you prefer a homemade version.

What type of jalapeños are used for the filling?

Jalapeños are a vegan item, so any brand without any additives is sufficient. Just remove the seeds if you don’t want the bread to be as spicy.