Pogace with cracklings

Pogăcele with Pork Cracklings – A Traditional Delicacy for Any Occasion

If you are looking for a savory recipe full of tradition, pogăcele with pork cracklings are the perfect choice! They are ideal for a hearty breakfast, a snack, or even to impress guests at a party. Moreover, they are an excellent way to use leftover ingredients from the fridge, with a taste that will surely make you come back for more. So, let’s get to work!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour
Number of servings: 20-25 pogăcele

Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 500 ml milk (you can use whole milk for a richer taste)
- 400 g pork cracklings (make sure they are fresh and of good quality)
- 750 g flour (you can use white flour or a combination with whole grain flour for a more complex flavor)
- 200 g lard (for an authentic taste, but you can also use butter)
- 50 g brewer's yeast (for a fluffy dough)
- 25 g sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 20 g caraway seeds (for an extra flavor)
- 20 g salt (regulates taste)
- 2 g pepper (optional, to add a hint of spiciness)

A Brief History of Pogăcele with Pork Cracklings:
Pogăcele with pork cracklings have been prepared over time in many cultures, based on simple yet very nutritious ingredients. They are especially popular during holidays when housewives test their skills and invite family and friends to lavish meals. Also, during fasting periods, such as the Christmas fast, these pogăcele become a way to transform basic ingredients into something special.

Preparing the Dough:
1. Start by dissolving the yeast in 100 ml of warm milk, along with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 2 tablespoons of flour. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast and ensure a good rise of the dough.
2. In a large bowl, add the remaining milk, eggs, melted lard, and the yeast mixture. Mix well with a spatula.
3. Gradually incorporate the flour, salt, remaining sugar, and pepper. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. This is a perfect time to relax and connect with the cooking process.
4. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for about an hour in a warm place until it doubles in volume.

Preparing the Filling:
5. While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling. Chop the cracklings with a meat grinder or pulse them in a food processor. Add the lard, salt, and pepper, mixing well. This mixture will give the pogăcele a rich and savory flavor.

Forming the Pogăcele:
6. Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1 cm.
7. Spread the crackling filling over the entire surface of the dough, then fold it in thirds (or fold it 3-4 times) to create layers. This step will give the pogăcele an airy texture.
8. Roll out the dough again to your desired thickness and cut circles using a glass or a cutter. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Finalizing and Baking:
9. Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat).
10. Brush each pogăcel with beaten egg to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Sprinkle caraway seeds on top for an extra flavor.
11. Bake the pogăcele in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they become golden and fluffy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:
Pogăcele with pork cracklings are best served warm, alongside creamy yogurt or a fresh salad. You can also add a spoonful of mustard or tomato sauce for an even more intense flavor. If you want to experiment, you can replace the cracklings with cheese or spinach, creating a delicious vegetarian version.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of pogăcele (about 2-3 pieces) contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They are rich in protein due to the cracklings and eggs, providing a good source of energy. They also contain healthy fats from the lard, essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of fats instead of lard?
- Yes, you can use butter or olive oil, but the taste will be different.
2. How can I store pogăcele?
- They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the freezer for a longer period.
3. Can I replace the cracklings with another ingredient?
- Of course! You can use sheep cheese, mushrooms, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.

I encourage you to try this recipe for pogăcele with pork cracklings and enjoy every bite! It is a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring nostalgia due to the tradition it represents. Enjoy your meal!