Appetizer pastry with cracklings

Pogăci with jumeri - The perfect crunchy delight for any occasion

If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer, pogăci with jumeri are the ideal choice. These treats are perfect for moments when you crave a snack, but also to impress your guests. They pair wonderfully with a cold beer, and their aroma will keep you coming back for more. Get ready to discover a simple yet flavorful recipe that will bring a smile to your face and fill your home with enticing scents.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Number of servings: 5 trays (approximately 40-50 pogăci, depending on size)

Ingredients

- 350 g ground jumeri
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon salt (or to taste)
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 300 ml warm water
- 800-900 g flour
- 1 egg for brushing
- 250 g Delaco cheese (or any preferred grated cheese)

The story behind the recipe

Pogăci with jumeri have a rich history in Romanian cuisine, often prepared during festive periods, but also on ordinary days when the craving for something hearty and tasty arises. These appetizers are commonly associated with holiday meals and moments spent with loved ones. Jumeri, a traditional ingredient, add flavor and texture, turning each bite into an unforgettable experience.

Step by step for perfect pogăci

1. Activating the yeast: Start by placing 25 g of fresh yeast in a small bowl. Add 100 ml of warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Mix well and let the yeast rise for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an essential step as activated yeast will help the dough rise and become fluffy.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, sift 800 g of flour and add 1 tablespoon of salt, 3 beaten eggs, and the ground jumeri. Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ones, then add the activated yeast. Gradually incorporate 300 ml of warm water, mixing continuously until the dough is smooth and easy to handle.

3. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in volume. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy and delicious pogăci.

4. Shaping the pogăci: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to form a sheet about 5 mm thick. Brush the surface with a beaten egg for a golden and shiny crust. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the entire surface of the dough.

5. Cutting the pogăci: Using a glass or a cookie cutter, cut out discs from the dough. Place the pogăci on trays lined with baking paper, leaving a small space between them as they will puff up in the oven.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the trays with pogăci in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy. You can turn them after the first 10 minutes to ensure they bake evenly.

7. Serving: Once the pogăci are ready, let them cool slightly before serving. They are delicious warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. You can serve them with a cold beer, white wine, or even a fruit compote for a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Useful tips

- Jumeri: You can use jumeri from various types of meat, but pork is the most traditional and flavorful. Make sure they are well-ground to combine evenly with the dough.
- Flour: Type 00 flour is ideal for a fine texture, but you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Variations: To add extra flavor, you can incorporate dried herbs such as oregano or marjoram into the dough. You can also experiment with different types of cheese.
- Storage: If there are leftover pogăci, keep them in an airtight container, and to reheat them, use the oven to restore their crispiness.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast. Replace 25 g of fresh yeast with about 10 g of dry yeast. Activation is not necessary; just mix the yeast with the flour and proceed according to the recipe.

2. How can I make the pogăci lower in calories? You can reduce the amount of jumeri and replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour. Additionally, you can use cheese with a lower fat content.

3. Can the pogăci be frozen? Yes, the pogăci can be frozen. After they have completely cooled, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the freezer. When you want to consume them, you can reheat them in the oven.

Pogăci with jumeri are not just a delicious appetizer but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. So, get ready to enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share these treats with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!