Tender crackers

Recipe for Crispy Salty Snacks: A Crunchy Delight for Every Occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 30 salty snacks

Introduction

Who doesn't love a crunchy and salty snack, perfect to enjoy alongside a cold or warm drink? Crispy salty snacks are an excellent choice, whether you serve them at a party or bring them as a little treat during a gathering with friends. These little dough boats are not only delicious but also easy to make! We will explore each step of the recipe together, and at the end, I will offer you some serving suggestions and variations to inspire you.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg flour
- 200 g lard
- 250 g margarine
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 3 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of sour cream
- 100 ml lukewarm milk
- Yeast the size of a larger walnut
- Sesame or poppy seeds for decoration

Ingredient Details

Flour is the base of our recipe, so it is important to use high-quality flour, type 650 or 000, which will provide a fluffy dough. Lard and margarine bring a rich texture and delicious taste, but you can also experiment with butter for added flavor. The egg yolks contribute to a golden color and better consistency, while the sour cream will add a touch of acidity that helps develop the flavors. The warm milk activates the yeast, so make sure it’s not too hot, so you don’t kill it.

Preparing the Dough

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the yeast with 100 ml of lukewarm milk and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial, as the activated yeast will make your salty snacks fluffy.

2. Preparing the Flour: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the lard and margarine. Use your fingertips to rub the fats into the flour until the mixture becomes crumbly. This technique helps achieve a fine texture.

3. Mixing the Ingredients: Add the egg yolks rubbed with salt, the activated yeast, and the sour cream to the bowl with flour. Start kneading the dough with your hands, gradually adding the rest of the lukewarm milk until you obtain a homogeneous and elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

Shaping the Snacks

4. Rolling Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a sheet about 1 cm thick. With a knife or a special tool, cut the dough into equal-sized sticks.

5. Brushing and Decorating: Beat the whole egg and brush each stick with a kitchen brush. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top for an attractive appearance and extra flavor. If you wish, you can also add a sprinkle of grated cheese for an intensified aroma.

Baking the Snacks

6. Preparing the Tray: Place the sticks on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a small space between them to allow for expansion during baking.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (high heat) and bake the snacks for 20-25 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. The aromas that will spread throughout the house are a true delight!

Serving and Suggestions

Once the snacks are baked, let them cool on a rack to maintain their crispy texture. These treats are delicious served plain, but they can be accompanied by a variety of dips, such as garlic yogurt sauce, hummus, or even melted cheese sauce. For a personal touch, you can add spices like paprika or cumin to the dough, giving a unique twist to the recipe.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

For each serving of crispy snacks, you can estimate about 120-150 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. These snacks are rich in carbohydrates, but also in healthy fats from lard and margarine, providing energy for the entire day. Moderation is key!

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I replace lard with something else? Yes, you can use only butter or a vegan alternative, but the textures may vary.
- How can I keep the snacks crispy? Store them in an airtight container, but do not cover them immediately after baking to prevent moisture buildup.
- Can I add cheese to the dough? Absolutely! Grated cheese added to the dough provides a savory taste and delicious aroma.

Possible Variations

To add variety, you can try the following variations:
- Olive snacks: Add finely chopped olives to the mixture for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Herb snacks: Infuse the dough with aromatic herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for an intense aroma.
- Chili snacks: Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

These crispy snacks are more than just a simple treat; they are an invitation to relax and share beautiful moments with loved ones. Whether you serve them at a party, a family gathering, or simply to indulge yourself, these delicious dough boats will surely win the hearts of everyone. So, gather your ingredients and let’s begin the culinary adventure! Enjoy!