Tender crackers

Tender Crackers: The Perfect Delight for Indulgent Moments

Get ready to pamper your taste buds with a delicious recipe for tender crackers. These snacks are ideal for any occasion: from a relaxing morning with a fragrant coffee to an evening of socializing with friends. The crackers are easy to prepare, and their unmistakable aroma will fill the house with inviting scents, drawing all your loved ones around the table. Whether you enjoy them plain, with yogurt, milk, or even alongside a cold beer, these crackers are always an inspired choice!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: Approximately 40 crackers

Ingredients:

- 700 gr flour (for a richer taste, use whole wheat flour or a combination with white flour)
- 300 gr lard (or alternatively, margarine, butter - each variant offers a distinct flavor)
- 100 ml warm milk (make sure it’s fresh)
- 1 cube fresh yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt (helps enhance the flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (for a creamy texture)
- 3 eggs (two for the dough and one for brushing)
- Sesame seeds, flax seeds, grated cheese or cheese (choose according to preference)

A Bit of History:

Crackers have a rich history, being appreciated in various cultures as an appetizer or snack. They are often associated with moments of conviviality, bringing people together around a table. In the past, they were made by housewives to celebrate various occasions, and today they continue to be a symbol of hospitality.

Step by Step:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour. This step is essential for achieving a fine texture. Add the lard and salt. Using your fingers, mix the ingredients until you get a sandy texture, similar to that of breadcrumbs.

2. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, add the warm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast) and the cube of yeast. Let it sit for a few minutes to activate – you will notice the yeast starting to form bubbles.

3. Combining Ingredients: Add the two eggs to the sandy dough, followed by the milk with the activated yeast and the sour cream. Knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous and firm, similar to that for croissants. It’s important not to over-knead to avoid developing too much gluten.

4. Fermentation: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for 30 minutes. This step will help the dough rise and become fluffier.

5. Shaping the Crackers: After the dough has risen, divide it into four equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out each piece of dough with a rolling pin until you achieve sheets of suitable thickness (no thinner than 5 mm).

6. Brushing and Seasoning: Beat the third egg well and use a brush to apply it evenly on each sheet of dough. Sprinkle sesame seeds, flax seeds, grated cheese or cheese on top, according to preferences. You can experiment with various spices, such as cumin or dill, to give them a personalized touch.

7. Cutting: Using a serrated knife, cut the crackers into desired shapes (strips, squares, or triangles), then place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

8. Baking: Bake the crackers in the oven for 20 minutes at medium heat (approximately 180°C), or until they turn golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

The crackers are delicious warm, but they also taste fantastic the next day. You can serve them as an appetizer at parties, accompanied by a yogurt-garlic dip or a cheese sauce. They also pair perfectly with a glass of white wine or a cold beer, bringing a touch of joy to any gathering.

Tips and Variations:

- For a more intense flavor, try adding spices to the dough, such as sweet paprika or granulated garlic.
- Cheese Crackers: Instead of seeds, add feta cheese to the dough for an intense flavor.
- Sweet Crackers: If you want to experiment, try adding a bit of sugar and cinnamon for a sweet version.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use butter instead of lard?
Yes, butter will provide a rich flavor, but make sure it is well incorporated into the dough.

2. How long can I keep the crackers?
They keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but are best consumed fresh.

3. Can I freeze the crackers?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a tray and freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Nutritional Benefits:

Crackers are a good source of carbohydrates, and adding seeds enriches them with fiber and essential fatty acids. Additionally, cheese brings calcium, and sour cream contributes healthy fats.

These tender crackers are not just a delight but also a way to bring family and friends together, turning every meal into a moment of joy. Prepare them with love and enjoy them with pleasure!