Tasty Snack Cake

Tasty appetizer cake: a versatile and filling delicacy

Dear cooking enthusiast, today I invite you to discover a recipe for a tasty appetizer cake, perfect for any occasion. This appetizer is not only an explosion of flavors but also an excellent way to use leftover ingredients from the fridge. The appetizer cake is an ideal choice for parties, festive meals, or simply to impress the family at dinner.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

History of the appetizer cake

The appetizer cake has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a recipe that has evolved over time to adapt to available tastes and ingredients. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, combined with creativity, can give rise to delicious and filling dishes. The exact origin of the cake is hard to determine, but it is clear that it has become a favorite in kitchens around the world, thanks to its versatility.

Ingredients (for 8-10 servings)

1 kg potatoes
150 g smoked neck
150 g bacon
200 g cheese
5 eggs
1 red bell pepper
1 green bell pepper
1 can of mushrooms (about 400 g)
Fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for mixing

Ingredient details

The potatoes are the base of this recipe, providing a creamy texture and pleasant taste. Choose medium potatoes that are firm and blemish-free. The smoked neck and bacon add a savory note, while the cheese, a semi-firm cheese, offers a salty and delicious taste. The bell peppers and mushrooms are ideal for adding a crunchy component and an extra boost of vitamins. Don't forget the fresh parsley, which brings a touch of freshness to the dish.

Step by step: Cooking the appetizer cake

1. Preparing the potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into cubes. Place them in a large pot with cold water and add salt (about a teaspoon). Bring the water to a boil and let the potatoes cook for 15-20 minutes until they become soft but do not crumble. Once ready, drain the water and let them cool.

2. Preparing the ingredients
While the potatoes are cooling, cut the smoked neck, bacon, and cheese into cubes. In a skillet, add the bacon and fry it until crispy. Add the smoked neck and continue frying for 2-3 minutes. Remove the ingredients from the skillet and let them cool. Cut the bell peppers into small cubes and the mushrooms into slices.

3. Potato mixture
When the potatoes have cooled, place them in a large bowl. Use a mixer to mash them until they become a fine puree. Add two eggs, salt, pepper, and a little oil (about 2-3 tablespoons) and mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

4. Assembling the cake
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a loaf pan with baking paper. Spread half of the potato mixture on the bottom of the pan. Add the mixture of cold cuts (bacon, smoked neck, cheese), mushrooms, bell peppers, two beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Cover with the other half of the potato puree and smooth the surface.

5. Decorating and baking
Beat an egg and brush it over the top of the cake. Decorate with slices of tomatoes and a few slices of green bell pepper. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let the cake bake for 50-60 minutes until it becomes golden and crispy on the outside.

6. Cooling and serving
After the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a platter and let it cool completely before slicing.

Useful tips for a perfect result

- Make sure the ingredients are at room temperature before using them. This helps achieve a uniform texture.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, to achieve a different flavor.
- Add olives or corn for an extra taste and interesting texture.
- The appetizer cake can be served warm or cold, being equally delicious in both versions.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This appetizer cake recipe is a good source of carbohydrates from potatoes and proteins from eggs and cold cuts. Each serving contains about 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Additionally, this appetizer is rich in vitamins and minerals from vegetables, providing you with a balanced nutritional intake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a pleasant sweetness and vibrant color to your cake.

2. How can I make the cake spicier?
Add a few slices of hot pepper or chili flakes to the cold cuts mixture for an extra kick.

3. What are the best side dishes for the appetizer cake?
The appetizer cake pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a yogurt garlic sauce, which adds a refreshing note.

4. Can I freeze the appetizer cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen after it has completely cooled. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container.

Personal variation

I recommend trying a vegetarian version of this appetizer cake, using vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or carrots instead of cold cuts. You can also add a little feta cheese for a unique flavor.

I hope this detailed recipe for a tasty appetizer cake inspires you to try it and discover the joy of cooking! Enjoy your meal!