Savory cake

Cheese and Vegetable Savory Cake - A Delicacy for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Imagine a wonderful snack that delights the taste buds of friends and family. The savory cake is a perfect choice for parties, family gatherings, or simply for a delicious meal with loved ones. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also offers a multitude of variations that can be adapted according to personal preferences.

A Bit of History

The savory cake has a rich history, being a popular preparation in many culinary cultures. Over time, it has evolved from a simple bread recipe with various ingredients into a versatile dish that can be adapted based on available ingredients. It is a perfect example of how humble ingredients can form a sophisticated and tasty dish.

Essential Ingredients

- 300 g cheese (preferably aged cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 300 g ham (you can also use turkey ham or a mix of cold cuts)
- 5 eggs (essential for binding all the ingredients)
- 4 tablespoons of flour (flour helps with the cake's structure)
- 4 tablespoons of sour cream (for a creamy taste and soft texture)
- 1 jar (430 g) sliced mushrooms (washed and well-drained)
- 1 red bell pepper (for a splash of color and sweetness)
- Pitted olives (preferably green or black, for added flavor)
- Breadcrumbs (for a crispy crust)

A unique detail: many people add fresh or dried herbs (such as dill, parsley, or oregano) to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Start by preparing all the ingredients. Cut the cheese, ham, and bell pepper into small cubes. Ensure the sizes are uniform for even baking.

2. Wash the canned mushrooms under cold running water, then let them drain for a few minutes. After that, a gentle squeeze by hand will remove excess water. Cut the mushrooms into cubes.

3. If the olives are too large, cut them into smaller pieces as well. These ingredients will add a rich flavor and interesting texture to the cake.

Mixing the Ingredients

4. In a large bowl, beat the 5 eggs with a whisk or fork until frothy. Add the sour cream and mix well.

5. Gradually incorporate the flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. You can use a silicone spatula to achieve a smooth mixture.

6. Now it’s time to add all the prepared ingredients: cheese, ham, mushrooms, bell pepper, and olives. Mix everything well so that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Baking the Cake

7. Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). This is the ideal temperature to achieve a crispy crust and a soft interior.

8. Line a loaf pan with baking paper or grease it with butter and sprinkle with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula.

9. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this interval, remove the pan and brush the surface of the cake with a beaten egg, then sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. This technique will give a golden and crispy crust.

10. Put the pan back in the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cake is nicely browned.

Serving and Delicious Combinations

11. Once the cake is ready, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve it warm or cold, sliced.

This appetizer can be served alongside a fresh salad or with a garlic yogurt sauce, which will add a pleasant contrast of flavors. You can also pair the cake with a glass of white wine or an artisanal beer to make the meal even more special.

Customized Version

If you want to customize your recipe, you can add vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella. Additionally, you can replace the ham with chicken or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well. Mozzarella or feta cheese are excellent options.

2. How can I store the cake?
The savory cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. It can be reheated before serving.

3. Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
The cake contains quite rich ingredients, but it can be adapted for gluten-free diets by replacing the flour with almond or coconut flour.

Nutritional Benefits

This savory cake is a good source of protein due to the eggs and ham, while the mushrooms provide fiber and antioxidants. Additionally, cheese offers essential calcium for bone health. By adding vegetables, the intake of vitamins and minerals also increases.

Estimated Calories: A serving of savory cake contains about 200-250 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Conclusion

The savory cake is a dish that combines ease of preparation with a richness of flavors. It is perfect for serving on any occasion, from simple family meals to festive parties. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and adapt it to your tastes. Whether you choose to serve it warm or cold, this cake will surely become a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy your meal!