Pastries with wild garlic and cheese

Wild garlic and cheese pastries - a delicacy that will delight your senses

When it comes to recipes that bring smiles and satisfaction to the faces of loved ones, wild garlic and cheese pastries are definitely on my favorite list. These little treats are not only very tasty but also extremely appetizing and versatile. Whether you serve them for breakfast, as an appetizer at a gathering with friends, or simply as a snack between meals, your pastries will surely be appreciated. So, get ready to discover a simple yet flavorful recipe!

Total preparation time: 3 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 90 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 pastries

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 large potato (approximately 200g)
- 450g flour
- 100g lard (or butter)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 egg yolks
- 150g sour cream
- 20g fresh yeast
- 50ml lukewarm milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 100g melted butter (for a richer taste)
- Chopped wild garlic (fresh or frozen, as preferred)
- 100g grated cheese (or parmesan, for a special touch)

Step by step to get delicious pastries:

1. Boil the potato: Start by boiling the potato with the skin on. This step is essential as it will add moisture and improve the dough's texture. Once boiled, let it cool slightly, then peel and mash it as for puree. Make sure it has cooled completely before adding it to the dough.

2. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, warm 50ml of milk until lukewarm (not hot!). Add a teaspoon of sugar and the crumbled yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy dough.

3. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, lard (or butter), salt, and mashed potato. Mix the dry and wet ingredients well. Add the egg yolks, the milk-yeast mixture, and half of the grated cheese.

4. Kneading the dough: Start kneading the dough, gradually adding the sour cream. Knead until you achieve a smooth and elastic dough. If necessary, you can add a bit more sour cream, but be careful not to make it too sticky. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 90 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

5. Preparing the pastries: Once the dough has risen, remove it from the bowl and roll it out on a floured surface. Roll it into a sheet about 1.5 - 2 cm thick. Brush the surface with melted butter, sprinkle with chopped wild garlic (use the desired amount depending on how pronounced you want the flavor), and the remaining grated cheese.

6. Shaping and resting: Roll the dough tightly, then let it rest for another hour. This will allow the gluten to relax and make the pastries fluffier.

7. Cutting and baking: Roll out the dough again on a floured surface, then cut it into square or round shapes, as preferred. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with beaten egg for a golden crust and sprinkle the remaining grated cheese or even caraway seeds on top if you like. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 25-30 minutes, or until nicely browned.

Serving suggestions and combinations

These wild garlic and cheese pastries are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them plain or with a cheese spread, Greek yogurt, or even a garlic sauce. They pair well with a fresh green salad or a glass of white wine for a complete culinary experience.

Tips and variations

- For an even more intense flavor: you can add spices like rosemary or oregano to the dough.
- Vegan option: replace the lard with olive oil and the sour cream with plant-based yogurt.
- Stuffed pastries: you can add various fillings inside the dough, such as sautéed mushrooms or feta cheese.

Nutritional benefits

These pastries are an excellent source of carbohydrates from flour and potato, while wild garlic adds a touch of vitamins and antioxidants. Additionally, the cheese provides protein and calcium, making it a good choice for a nutritious snack.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of cheese?
Sure! You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese, depending on your preferences.

- Can the pastries be frozen?
Yes, after baking, you can freeze the pastries to enjoy later. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.

- What is the best way to reheat the pastries?
The best way is to reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

So, I invite you to try this recipe for wild garlic and cheese pastries and enjoy delicious moments with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!