Cheese pie

Savory Cheese Pie – A Traditional Indulgence

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

In a world full of sweets, sometimes our hearts urge us to enjoy savory flavors. The savory cheese pie is a classic recipe, an excellent choice for quick lunches or informal dinners with loved ones. This simple yet delicious recipe will bring a touch of nostalgia and spread enticing aromas throughout the house. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients you will need:
- 400 g of flour
- 20 g of fresh yeast
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Approximately 250 ml of warm milk
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 500 g of sheep cheese (or your favorite salty cheese)
- 200 g of goat Esquisa cheese
- A few slices of ham (optional)
- 3 tablespoons of sour cream
- Fresh dill, chopped
- 1 bell pepper sliced
- 1 egg yolk for brushing on top

Preparing the dough:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix fresh yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of flour, and about 100 ml of warm milk. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it sit in a warm place for 10-15 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast, beaten eggs, and the rest of the warm milk. Knead the dough, gradually adding the 3 tablespoons of oil. It’s important for the dough to be slightly softer than usual to achieve a fluffy texture.

3. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the filling:

While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling:

1. Combining the cheeses: In a large bowl, mix the sheep cheese with the goat Esquisa cheese. Add the sour cream, chopped dill, and finely chopped ham slices. If you like a touch of freshness, you can also add the sliced bell pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Assembling the pie:

1. Rolling out the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out the first part into a thin sheet. Place the sheet in a greased baking dish (a glass dish is perfect for this).

2. Adding the filling: Spread the cheese filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough in the dish.

3. Covering the pie: Roll out the other part of the dough and cover the filling. Gently press the edges to seal the pie.

4. Brushing on top: Beat the egg yolk and brush it evenly over the surface of the pie for a golden and appetizing appearance.

Baking:

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy.

2. Once baked, let it cool slightly before cutting. You can serve the pie warm or cold, but personally, I enjoy it cold, where the flavors become even more intense.

Tips and useful advice:

- For an extra flavor boost: Add spices like freshly ground black pepper or chili flakes to the filling.
- Variations: Substitute sheep cheese with feta cheese or add sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Storing the pie: The pie keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

Nutritional benefits:

This pie is an excellent source of protein due to the cheeses and eggs. The dill adds not only flavor but also essential vitamins. Whole flour can be used to increase the fiber content, making it a healthier choice.

Ideal combinations:

The cheese pie pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a tomato and onion salad. A cup of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce can add a refreshing note.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package for activation.

2. How can I make the dough less sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.

3. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container.

With this savory cheese pie recipe, you will surely impress and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!