Tender Crackers

Recipe for Tender Cheese Crackers with Sheep Cheese

If you are looking for a simple and quick recipe to impress your guests with a savory appetizer, you have come to the perfect place! The tender crackers with sheep cheese are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. These little delights have always been a favorite at parties and family gatherings, making them ideal to be served alongside soft drinks or even a glass of wine.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

- 200 grams of lard (you can use butter if you prefer)
- 150 grams of sour cream
- 20 grams of fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 150-200 grams of sheep cheese (or burduf cheese)
- Sweet paprika for sprinkling (optional)
- Caraway seeds, to taste
- 1 egg for brushing
- Flour, as needed (approximately 600 grams)

Ingredient Details

- Lard: Gives a tender texture to the dough. If you prefer a lighter version, you can opt for butter, but the specific flavor of lard will make the crackers richer.
- Sheep cheese: This is the key ingredient that adds flavor. Depending on how salty the cheese is, adjust the amount of salt in the recipe.
- Fresh yeast: Ensures a nice rise of the dough, giving it a fluffy texture. If you use dry yeast, use an amount of about 7 grams.

History of the Cracker

Crackers have a long history, being appreciated in many cultures as ideal snacks to be enjoyed on special occasions or during moments of relaxation. These appetizers are often associated with moments spent with loved ones, where taste and aroma become an integral part of memories. Over time, each housewife has added a personal touch to the recipe, creating a rich variety of crackers.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the fresh yeast with the teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it becomes liquid and frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the lard, sour cream, crumbled sheep cheese, and the yeast mixture. Use a spatula or whisk to combine the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

3. Forming the dough: Gradually add the flour, stirring continuously, until you obtain a firm dough. It is important not to add all the flour at once, but to incorporate it gradually to control the texture of the dough.

4. Resting the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rest for 20-30 minutes. This step will allow the yeast to act, making the crackers fluffier.

5. Forming the cracker: After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface, forming a square sheet. Use a special roller to cut thin strips. These will become your tender crackers.

6. Seasoning: Brush the strips with beaten egg, then sprinkle sweet paprika and caraway seeds on top, to taste. These seasonings will not only enhance the appearance but will also add extra flavor.

7. Baking: Transfer the crackers to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 150°C and bake the crackers for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly browned. Be careful, as every oven bakes differently, so it is good to keep an eye on them.

8. Cooling: Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Although they are delicious warm, they become even tastier the next day when the flavors have time to settle.

Serving Suggestions

Tender crackers pair perfectly with various dips, such as a garlic yogurt sauce or fresh guacamole. You can also serve them with a glass of white wine or craft beer to create a perfect combination.

Variations

- Add herbs: You can experiment with different herbs, such as dill, thyme, or oregano, adding them to the dough for a distinctive flavor.
- Use other types of cheese: Instead of sheep cheese, you can try feta or mozzarella cheese for a different texture and taste.
- Add olives or nuts: If you like unique combinations, you can add chopped olives or nuts to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquids in the recipe, as whole wheat flour absorbs more water.

How long do the crackers last?
If stored in an airtight container, the crackers can last up to a week. However, it is best to consume them in the first few days to enjoy their crispy texture.

Can I freeze the crackers?
Yes, the crackers can be frozen. I recommend letting them cool completely, then wrapping them well in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. You can bake them directly from the freezer, but the baking time will be longer.

Nutritional Benefits

These tender crackers contain nutritious ingredients, such as sheep cheese, which is a good source of protein and calcium. The intake of healthy fats from lard (or butter) and sour cream contributes to a feeling of satiety. However, like any snack, it is best to consume in moderation.

In conclusion, tender crackers with sheep cheese are not only an excellent choice for appetizers but also an easy recipe to customize. So don't hesitate to experiment and adapt them to your taste! Enjoy and happy cooking!