Cheese pie

Cheese Flatbread: The Perfect Treat for Movie Nights

When you crave a delicious snack that's healthier than chips, cheese flatbread proves to be the ideal choice. This simple yet incredibly tasty recipe will win you over with its unmistakable flavor and soft texture. It's perfect for movie nights, gatherings with friends, or simply when you want to indulge in something good.

Total preparation time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 3 medium flatbreads (25-30 cm round pan)

Ingredients:

- 1 cube of fresh yeast
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 250 ml warm water
- 1 egg
- Flour as needed (about 500 g, but depends on humidity)
- Salted cheese (preferably cow or sheep, grated)
- Caraway seeds (optional, but recommended)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast cube in warm water along with the sugar and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is proof that the yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

2. Mixing the ingredients: Add the oil and egg to the yeast mixture. Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or your hands. Continue adding flour until you obtain a soft dough that no longer sticks to your hands. It should be elastic and slightly sticky.

3. Kneading: Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until it becomes uniform and smooth. This step is essential for developing gluten and achieving a pleasant texture.

4. Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and place it in a warm spot, away from drafts, for about 30 minutes until the dough doubles in size.

5. Shaping the flatbreads: Once the dough has risen, divide it into 3 equal parts. On a floured surface, stretch each piece of dough with oiled hands to form a thin disc, about 1 cm thick. Use a round pan with a diameter of 25-30 cm to shape it as desired.

6. Adding the cheese: Grate the salted cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the surface of the dough. Fold the dough in half so that the cheese is inside, then reshape it to fit the pan. This step will help retain the moisture of the cheese and develop the flavors.

7. Seasoning: Lightly moisten the surface of the pan with a little water and sprinkle caraway seeds on top. The caraway will add a special note and perfectly complement the cheese.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the flatbread for about 25-30 minutes until it turns golden and crispy.

9. Serving: Let the flatbread cool slightly before cutting it. It's delicious warm or at room temperature. You can serve it with a garlic yogurt sauce or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the cheese: Salted cheese is essential for providing the characteristic flavor. You can experiment with different types of cheese, but make sure it is salty. For example, feta or goat cheese can bring unique flavors.
- Variations: You can add herbs to the dough, such as oregano or basil, for an extra flavor boost. You can also try adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture.
- Dough storage: If you want to make the dough ahead of time, you can knead it and keep it in the fridge, covered, for 1-2 days. When you're ready to use it, let it come to room temperature and then continue with the shaping steps.

Nutritional benefits:

Cheese flatbread is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, thanks to the ingredients used. Cheese provides calcium and protein, while caraway has antioxidant and digestive properties. This snack not only satisfies cravings but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 7 g of dry yeast, but don’t forget to activate it in warm water, just like fresh yeast.

2. What type of flour is recommended?
White wheat flour is the most commonly used, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free mixes, adjusting the water quantities.

3. How can I store the flatbread?
The flatbread stores well in an airtight container at room temperature, but it's recommended to consume it within 2-3 days to enjoy its freshness.

4. What can I pair the cheese flatbread with?
This delicious flatbread pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or fresh tomato juice, and can be served as an appetizer or snack.

In conclusion, cheese flatbread is an excellent choice for any occasion. The simple ingredients and easy preparation make this recipe a true pleasure to cook. So get ready to enjoy a culinary treat that will impress everyone!