Savory pumpkin cake

Pumpkin Appetizer Cake: A Delight of Flavor and Color

Who would have thought that a simple pumpkin could transform an ordinary recipe into a delicious and surprising delicacy? The pumpkin appetizer cake is not only an excellent choice for a hearty breakfast but also a perfect snack for any occasion. This recipe combines the sweet flavors of pumpkin with the savory notes of ham and cheese, offering a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that will please every guest.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Essential ingredients:
- 400 g pumpkin (about one small pumpkin)
- 100 g ham (choose a smoked variety for extra flavor)
- 100 g cow cheese (or feta cheese for a salty note)
- 1 medium carrot
- 10 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil for a subtler taste)
- 1/2 cup semolina
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 onion (preferably white or red, depending on preference)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Fresh parsley (for an aromatic boost)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

A bit of history:
Appetizer cakes have their roots in culinary traditions of using leftover or seasonal ingredients. Pumpkin, a versatile ingredient, has been used in many cultures to add sweetness and moisture to dishes. With this recipe, not only do we harness the potential of pumpkin, but we also create a snack that quickly becomes a family favorite.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the pumpkin:
Start by peeling the pumpkin. Use a sharp knife to cut it into slices and then grate it on a large grater. Once grated, sprinkle a little salt over the pumpkin and let it sit for 10 minutes. This step helps remove excess water and intensifies the pumpkin's flavor.

2. Squeezing the pumpkin:
After 10 minutes, squeeze the pumpkin well to eliminate excess liquid. This step is crucial, as a too-wet pumpkin can make the cake soft and sticky.

3. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the squeezed pumpkin. Cut the ham into small cubes and grate the cheese on a small grater. Add them to the bowl with the pumpkin. Now, clean and finely chop the onion and garlic, and the grated carrot joins the mixture. Mix all the ingredients well to ensure the flavors combine perfectly.

4. Adding the wet ingredients:
Add the egg yolks, oil, semolina, breadcrumbs, baking powder, and chopped parsley. Mix again, ensuring all ingredients are evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Beating the egg whites:
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will add an airy texture to your cake. Once the egg whites are ready, gently fold them into the pumpkin mixture using a spatula to avoid losing the air from the egg whites.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and pour the mixture evenly into the pan. Level the surface for a uniform appearance. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Serving:
After the cake has cooled slightly, you can remove it from the pan. It can be served warm or cold. Ideal combinations are with fresh tomatoes, peppers, or a crispy green salad.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as goat cheese for a stronger flavor or mozzarella for a softer texture.
- If you enjoy more intense flavors, add spices like cumin or smoked paprika.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it can even be frozen for a future occasion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
- What is the best way to know if the cake is done? Use a toothpick or knife; if it comes out clean, it means it is baked.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This pumpkin appetizer cake recipe is rich in fiber due to the pumpkin and carrot, providing a healthy intake of vitamins and minerals. Per serving, the cake contains approximately 220 calories, making it a healthy and satisfying snack. Pumpkin is an excellent source of antioxidants, while the ham and cheese add essential proteins.

Delicious combinations:
This appetizer cake pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh citrus cocktail. Additionally, for a complete meal, serve it alongside a creamy vegetable soup or a quinoa salad with seasonal vegetables.

So, gather your ingredients, prepare your kitchen, and let yourself be carried away by the delicious flavors of this pumpkin appetizer cake recipe. You'll discover how simple and enjoyable it is to combine simple ingredients into a tasty dish, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!