Appetizer Cake

Savory Cake – A Delicious Treat for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

The history of savory cake is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary culture, where the moist and flavorful batter has transformed into delightful dishes, perfect for serving as appetizers or snacks. This cake is an excellent choice for a party, a picnic, or simply to add a touch of flavor to lunch. Whether served warm or cold, this savory cake is sure to impress!

Basic ingredients:

- 200 g flour
- 100 g olives (green or black, as preferred)
- 300 g ham (you can use smoked ham or a leaner option, depending on your preference)
- 200 ml milk
- 5 slices of pickled bell pepper (or sweet pepper for a sweeter note)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 200 g cheese (choose a mature cheese for a more intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 5 eggs

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Cut the ham, bell peppers, and cheese into small cubes so they integrate evenly into the batter. If using olives, make sure to pit them and cut them into cubes as well. These details are essential for achieving a pleasant texture and an even distribution of flavors in the cake.

Step 2: Mixing the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. This combination will help the cake rise during baking, giving it a fluffy texture. It is important to use quality flour, as this will directly influence the final result.

Step 3: Beating the eggs

In another bowl, beat the eggs with a mixer until they become light and fluffy. This step will introduce air into the mixture, which is essential for obtaining a well-aerated savory cake. Add the milk and continue mixing until fully combined.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients

Add the flour and baking powder mixture to the beaten eggs, stirring with a spatula or a wooden spoon. It is important not to overmix, as this can make the cake denser. When the mixture becomes homogeneous, add the cubes of ham, bell pepper, olives, and cheese, as well as salt, pepper, and oil. Gently mix until all ingredients are well integrated.

Step 5: Baking the cake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a loaf pan lined with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cake after baking. Carefully pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven in the first 30 minutes to avoid hindering the proper rise of the cake.

Step 6: Cooling and serving

After the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. It can be served warm, but it is equally delicious cold, so you can prepare it in advance for special events.

Serving suggestions:

The savory cake pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce. You can also serve it alongside a glass of dry white wine or craft beer, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the ham and cheese.

Possible variations:

This savory cake is extremely versatile. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, and add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost. If you want to make it vegetarian, you can replace the ham with roasted vegetables or mushrooms.

Nutritional benefits:

This savory cake is an excellent source of protein due to the eggs and ham, while the cheese provides a significant amount of calcium. Olives are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, and bell peppers are a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the ham with boiled chicken or beef. You can also add a few cubes of bacon to the mixture for a smoky flavor.

2. What can I do if I don't have baking powder?
If you don't have baking powder, you can use baking soda, but make sure to add a little lemon juice or vinegar to activate the rising reaction.

3. How can I store the cake?
The savory cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days. You can slice it and freeze it for later consumption.

4. What other recipes can I try?
If you like this savory cake, I recommend trying the recipe for savory muffins with vegetables or quiche with cheese and spinach. Both are equally delicious and versatile!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! This savory cake will pamper you with its rich flavors and fluffy texture, surely becoming a favorite dish in your kitchen. Enjoy!