Savory cheese pies

Savory Cheese Pies – A Homemade Delicacy

Who can resist the warm and tempting aromas of savory cheese pies? This dish is not just a simple snack; it is a culinary experience that brings together fresh ingredients and the tradition of home cooking. Whether you enjoy them alongside a warm soup or as an appetizer at a party, these pies are always a hit. So, get ready to transform a few simple ingredients into something truly special!

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 pies

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 550 g flour
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 300 g natural yogurt
- 50 ml sunflower oil
- 2 eggs

For the filling:
- 400 g cottage cheese
- 250 g goat cheese (or feta cheese)
- 3 eggs
- 3-4 tablespoons yogurt/sour cream

A Brief History

Cheese pies have a rich history in culinary culture, with deep roots in the cooking traditions of communities around the world. They are often associated with moments of celebration and conviviality, prepared by generations. Each family has its unique recipe, with slight variations that reflect local preferences and available ingredients.

Preparation Technique

Step 1: Activating the yeast

Start by crumbling the fresh yeast into a small bowl. Add a teaspoon of sugar and enough warm water to activate it. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step, as the activated yeast will ensure the dough rises beautifully.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the activated yeast. Add the eggs, yogurt, and oil. Use a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients, then switch to kneading by hand. Here, it’s important to add the oil gradually while kneading. The dough should be non-sticky, but don’t overdo it with the flour; the more you knead, the more flour it will require. Kneading for 5-7 minutes is ideal.

Step 3: Letting the dough rise

Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 30-40 minutes. This rising process is essential for achieving fluffy pies.

Step 4: Preparing the filling

While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling. In a bowl, mash the cottage cheese with a fork. Grate the goat cheese and add it to the cottage cheese. Mix the two cheeses well to combine them evenly. Add the yogurt or sour cream (these will give the filling a creamier texture) and the eggs. Taste the filling and adjust with salt if necessary. I recommend a small amount of salt, as the goat cheese is already salty.

Step 5: Shaping the pies

Preheat the oven to 180°C. On a clean surface, sprinkle a little flour and roll out the dough. Divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part into an even layer about 1 cm thick. Spread half of the filling on each piece of dough, then roll the dough tightly. Cut the rolls into small portions, about 5 cm.

Step 6: Baking the pies

Place the cut pies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for 10 minutes, then put them in the preheated oven at 180°C, with ventilation, for 25-30 minutes. If you wish, you can bake the pies with a steam bath to achieve a fluffier crust.

Step 7: Finishing

When the pies are golden brown and look appetizing, take them out of the oven. Quickly brush them with hot water and cover them with a clean towel for a few minutes to keep them moist.

Serving Suggestions

These savory cheese pies are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them alongside a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or with a yogurt sauce flavored with garlic. You can also pair them with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade for a perfect meal.

Variations and Useful Tips

If you want to add a different touch to this dish, you can try adding fresh dill or chopped black olives to the filling. You can also use sweet cheese instead of salty cheese to create a less common variant.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need to adjust the amount. Use about 7 g of dry yeast to equal 20 g of fresh yeast.

2. How long can I keep the pies?
The pies can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their freshness.

3. What other fillings can I use?
You can experiment with various fillings, such as spinach and feta cheese or sautéed mushrooms with onions.

Nutritional Benefits

These pies contain cottage cheese and goat cheese, which are excellent sources of protein and calcium. The yogurt in the dough contributes to healthy digestion, and using sunflower oil brings essential fatty acids. Whole wheat flour can be used instead of white flour for an extra boost of fiber.

So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe for savory cheese pies! It’s a fantastic way to bring family or friends together and create pleasant memories around the table. Enjoy!