Cheese and cumin pastries

Cheese and Caraway Crackers – A Nostalgic Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 24 crackers

Who doesn’t remember the taste of childhood, the enticing smell of freshly baked muffins, or the savory snacks that accompanied us at every party? Cheese and caraway crackers are those treats that bring a smile to anyone's face, perfect for a quick breakfast, a snack at the office, or even an appetizer at a festive meal. This recipe has a special story for me, passed down from my mother, who made them for the first time 36 years ago at my sister's baptism. Since then, these crackers have become a symbol of conviviality and joy around the table.

The basic ingredients are simple, but their combination creates an amazing flavor, and the crunchy texture will keep you coming back for more. Let’s start our culinary journey!

Necessary ingredients:

- 400 g of flour
- 400 g of grated cheese
- 200 g of butter (at room temperature)
- 6 tablespoons of sour cream
- 2 egg yolks (for brushing the crackers)
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds (optional, but recommended)

Step 1: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make sure to mix them well, so the salt is evenly distributed. This will help enhance the flavor of the crackers.

Then, add the butter at room temperature. Use your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. This technique is essential for achieving a flaky texture.

Now, it’s time to add the grated cheese! Choose a quality cheese, as it will influence the final taste. Mix well, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dough. Add the sour cream and continue to knead until the dough is homogeneous and thick. It’s important not to over-knead, as this will make the dough too elastic.

Step 2: Shaping the crackers

On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it is about 5 mm thick. Use a knife or cutter to cut the dough into long strips. Each strip should be about 1 cm wide.

At this point, you can choose to make the crackers with caraway or without. If you opt to use caraway, sprinkle it over the strips of dough before baking. You can also add a little grated cheese on top for extra flavor.

Step 3: Baking the crackers

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the strips of dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave a little space between them. Beat the two egg yolks and brush each cracker to achieve a golden and glossy finish.

Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy. It’s important to keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking, as they can burn quickly.

Step 4: Serving and storing

Once the crackers are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. These crackers are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with a garlic yogurt dip or a cheese spread, and for a touch of freshness, add some cucumber slices.

Practical tips:

1. Choosing ingredients: Use aged cheese for a more intense flavor. If you wish, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to create crackers with different flavors.

2. Spice variations: Instead of caraway, you can use sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even oregano for an original twist on your crackers.

3. Storing the crackers: If you don’t consume them immediately, store the crackers in an airtight container. They can stay fresh for a few days, but they are best eaten within the first 48 hours.

Nutritional benefits:

Cheese crackers are a good source of protein and calcium due to the cheese. Butter provides essential fats, and sour cream adds extra flavor. It’s important to consume them in moderation, considering the calorie content. A serving of crackers (about 2-3 crackers) contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture and flavor may vary.

2. How can I make the crackers healthier? You can reduce the amount of butter by using a denser Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or butter, while still keeping the delicious taste.

Pairings and serving suggestions:

Cheese and caraway crackers pair wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a cold craft beer. They can also be served alongside a fresh green salad to add a touch of freshness to your meal.

I conclude this recipe with a personal note: at every family meal, these crackers are always a topic of conversation, reminding us of the beautiful moments spent together. I invite you to try them and share them with your loved ones to create your own unforgettable memories around the table. Happy cooking!