Meat crown

Meat Crown: A savory appetizer, perfect for any occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will share with you an enticing recipe for preparing a meat crown, an appetizer that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. This recipe enjoys a perfect combination of fluffy dough and delicious filling, making it ideal for parties, festive meals, or simply to be enjoyed with family. Let's begin our culinary journey!

About the recipe

The meat crown is a dish that brings together a variety of savory ingredients, enclosed in a light and fluffy dough. This appetizer has deep roots in culinary tradition, often associated with special moments spent with loved ones. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted with various fillings, depending on individual preferences. In addition to its delicious taste, the crown also brings an appealing visual aspect, making it perfect for impressing guests.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 150 ml warm water
- 250 g flour
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the filling:
- 1 chicken breast (about 300 g)
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley

For decoration:
- 4-5 slices of mozzarella
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk
- Sesame seeds

Practical tips about the ingredients

- Flour: Choose a high-quality flour, type 000 or 550, for a fluffier dough.
- Yeast: Make sure the yeast is fresh. If using fresh yeast, calculate 30 g.
- Chicken breast: You can replace the chicken breast with turkey or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella for a more intense flavor and creamier texture.

Preparation technique

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with the sugar and dissolve it in 50 ml of warm water. Let it rise for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to ensure proper fermentation of the dough.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl (or in the bread machine), add the flour, salt, and oil. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast. Pour in the remaining warm water (about 100 ml) and start kneading. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it is too sticky, add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

3. Proving the dough: Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy and light crown.

4. Preparing the filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Cut the chicken breast into small cubes and chop it finely. Grate the carrot and crush the garlic. In a bowl, mix all the filling ingredients: chopped chicken, carrot, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Make sure all ingredients are well combined.

5. Forming the crown: Once the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a tart pan with oil. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a round shape, about 30 cm in diameter. Slightly lift the edges of the dough over the sides of the pan.

6. Adding the filling: Evenly distribute the chicken filling around the edge of the dough, forming a ring. Place the mozzarella slices on top of the filling for a creamy and delicious taste.

7. Creating the star: Using a knife or dough cutter, cut the center of the dough into a star shape, forming 8 triangles. Fold each triangle over the filling, pinching the tip to the edge of the dough to create a crown appearance.

8. Brushing and decorating: Beat the egg yolk with a tablespoon of milk and brush the crown with this mixture. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and a beautiful appearance.

9. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the crown is golden and crispy. Check occasionally to ensure even baking.

10. Serving: After it has cooled slightly, remove the crown from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. Serve warm, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt dip.

Possible variations

- Vegetarian filling: You can replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, peppers, and broccoli, mixed with feta cheese.
- Spices: Add spices such as smoked paprika or thyme to the filling for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or cheddar, to change the taste of the crown.

Nutritional information

This meat crown is an excellent choice, providing a good source of protein from the chicken breast and nutrients from the vegetables. A 100 g serving has approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying snack without overloading the diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the dough will have a denser texture. I recommend mixing whole wheat flour with white flour for a better consistency.
- How can I store leftover crown? Store the crown in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

Now that you have gone through this detailed recipe, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start cooking! The meat crown will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share the experience with your loved ones and enjoy the delicious moments spent together!