Savory cake

Savory Cheese and Ham Loaf Recipe

I invite you to discover together a delicious and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for those moments when you want to surprise family and friends with a tasty appetizer. This savory loaf with cheese and ham is not only an excellent choice for breakfast but also an ideal snack for any occasion.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 5 large eggs
- 150 g white flour
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 150 g grated cow cheese
- 300 g diced Prague ham
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 packet of baking powder (approx. 10 g)

Brief History

The savory loaf is a versatile recipe that has gained popularity in many culinary cultures. This hearty snack is an excellent way to use leftover ingredients in the fridge, transforming them into a tasty meal. Savory loaves are often served at parties or gatherings, being easy to portion and serve.

Step by Step: Preparing the Savory Loaf

1. Prepare the ingredients

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, which will help achieve a fine and airy texture. Grate the cheese on a large grater and cut the ham and bell pepper into small cubes. This will allow the flavors to blend harmoniously in the mixture.

2. Beat the eggs

In a large bowl, beat the 5 eggs using a whisk or mixer. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Ensure the eggs are well incorporated; this will make the loaf fluffy and airy.

3. Add the oil and dry ingredients

While continuing to mix the eggs, add the 3 tablespoons of oil. Then, incorporate the flour and baking powder. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture without lumps.

4. Integrate the solid ingredients

Start adding the grated cheese, diced ham, and chopped bell pepper. Mix everything with a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed in the batter.

5. Prepare the baking pan

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking pan (approximately 25x15 cm) by lining it with parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the loaf from sticking to the pan.

6. Bake the loaf

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. Check if it’s done by piercing the loaf with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the loaf is perfectly baked.

7. Cooling

After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. It’s important to let it cool for 1-2 hours before slicing, as this will help maintain its structure and make it easier to portion.

Practical Tips

- You can add herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Instead of Prague ham, you can use bacon or sausage for a more intense taste.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the ham with sautéed zucchini or mushrooms.
- The loaf can be stored well in the fridge, covered, for 3-4 days, or you can freeze it to enjoy later.

Delicious Combinations

This savory loaf pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a portion of tzatziki sauce. You can also serve it alongside a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade, perfect for warm summer days.

Nutritional Information

Approximately, one serving of this savory loaf contains about 250 calories. It is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, while also providing carbohydrates from the flour. The cheese adds extra calcium, and the red bell pepper is an excellent source of vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or feta cheese for a more intense flavor.

2. Can this recipe be adapted for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, you can replace the white flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or rice flour.

3. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, carrots, or spinach are excellent for adding extra nutrients and color.

Personal Note

This savory loaf recipe has quickly become my favorite on busy days when I want something quick and tasty. I love experimenting with various ingredients and adapting the recipe based on what I have in the fridge. Every variation I’ve tried has been delicious, and my family has always appreciated the result.

So, don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on this loaf and enjoy every bite! I hope you like it, and we look forward to hearing your impressions!