Poppy and sesame seed crackers.

Let's cool off together with a delicious recipe for salty pastries with poppy seeds and sesame! This savory appetizer is perfect for hot summer days when we want to enjoy authentic flavors accompanied by a glass of cold beer. The pastries are the ideal snack for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party, having friends over, or simply want to indulge in a relaxing evening at home.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 pastries

The history of pastries
Pastries are a traditional appetizer, known in many cultures, symbolizing conviviality and the joy of sharing special moments with loved ones. Over time, recipes have diversified, incorporating different types of cheese, spices, and seeds. These small delights are pure versatility, enjoyed plain or alongside a cheese spread or dip.

Ingredients
- 150 g salty cow cheese
- 150 g flour
- 150 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- Poppy seeds, sesame, or cumin for decoration
- 1 egg for glazing

Ingredient details
- Cheese: Choose a quality cheese, with a firm but creamy texture. If it is very salty, it is advisable not to add extra salt to avoid ruining the final taste.
- Butter: Provides a rich flavor to your pastries; make sure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation into the dough.
- Flour: Use white wheat flour (type 000) for a fine texture. If you want to experiment, you can add some whole wheat flour for a more rustic taste.
- Seeds: Poppy seeds and sesame not only add a beautiful appearance but also a distinct flavor. You can also try cumin for a spicier taste.

Step by step for a perfect pastry recipe

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by grating the cheese. You can use a fine grater or a food processor to achieve a smooth paste. This step is crucial, as well-grated cheese will integrate more easily into the dough.

2. Mixing the cheese with the eggs: In a large bowl, add the grated cheese and the egg. Mix well with a spatula or an electric mixer until you obtain a smooth composition. This paste will be the tasty base of your pastries.

3. Incorporating the butter and flour: Add the diced butter and flour to the cheese mixture. Use your hands to knead the dough until all ingredients are well combined. When the dough becomes smooth and easy to shape, it is ready for the next step.

4. Shaping the pastries: On a floured work surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1 cm. Use a knife or a glass to cut out the desired shapes. You can opt for classic square, triangular shapes, or even creative shapes, depending on the occasion.

5. Preparing for baking: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the cut pastries on the tray, leaving a little space between them to prevent sticking during baking. Beat the remaining egg and brush the pastries with it for a golden and appetizing crust.

6. Adding the seeds: Generously sprinkle poppy seeds, sesame, or cumin over the pastries. These not only enhance the appearance but also add a touch of texture and flavor.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the pastries for 30-40 minutes or until they become slightly golden and crispy. Delicious aromas will spread in the kitchen, and your patience will be rewarded!

8. Cooling: After baking, let the pastries cool slightly on a rack. This step is essential to maintain their crispy texture.

Serving suggestions
Serve the pastries warm or at room temperature, alongside a cold glass of beer or a dry white wine. You can accompany these snacks with various dips, such as hummus or tzatziki, for an extra burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or spices, ensuring to maintain a balance of salt.

Tips and useful advice
- If you want to keep the pastries longer, you can freeze them before baking. Place the cut shapes on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once they are firm, you can transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to bake them, just take them out and put them directly in the oven without thawing.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a distinct flavor.
- If you like spicy pastries, you can add a little ground chili pepper to the dough for an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits
These pastries are a hearty snack, rich in protein due to the cheese and egg, while also providing a good source of healthy fats from the butter. The flour used contributes to the carbohydrate intake, essential for energy.

Calories
Each pastry contains approximately 100-120 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. Ideal for moments when you want a satisfying snack that is easy to prepare.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use soy cheese for a vegan version? Yes, you can replace the cheese with a vegan alternative, but you will need to adjust the proportions to achieve a good consistency.
- Can the pastries be made gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour, and the result will be just as delicious.
- Can I add herbs? Certainly! Dill, oregano, or thyme can add an interesting flavor to your pastries.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to surprise your friends and family with these pastries with poppy seeds and sesame! Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table. Bon appétit!