Waffles

Waffle Machine Crackers - A Delicious and Quick Snack

Crackers are a delicious appetizer, perfect for breakfast, a snack between meals, or even to be served at parties. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the flavor of cheese and cumin makes them irresistible. Moreover, preparing them in a waffle machine gives them a unique texture that sets them apart from other types of crackers. So, let’s start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

- 650 g cheese (preferably an aged and very salty cheese like telemea or burduf cheese)
- 250 g butter (at room temperature)
- 2 eggs
- 400 ml yogurt or sour cream
- 900 g flour
- 50 g cumin
- Salt (optional, depending on how salty the cheese is)

The History of Crackers

Over time, crackers have been appreciated as a savory snack, originating in traditional kitchens where cheese and spices were staple ingredients. They have evolved into different shapes and recipes, but the idea of baking them in a waffle machine brings a new breath, making them more accessible and quicker to prepare.

Step by Step: How to Make Crackers in a Waffle Machine

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by choosing a quality cheese. An aged and salty cheese will provide an intense flavor, but you can also opt for a less salty variant, depending on your preferences. Grate the cheese using the small holes of the grater, so it easily integrates into the dough.

In a large bowl, combine the grated cheese, soft butter, yogurt, eggs, and cumin. Use a spatula or whisk to mix the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. The cumin will add a flavorful note and a slight spicy taste.

2. Adding the flour:
Now is the time to add the flour. Gradually add the flour while constantly mixing to avoid lumps. The dough should become non-sticky yet compact. If you notice it is too soft, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as the crackers may become too hard.

3. Forming the balls:
In the meantime, prepare the waffle machine. It needs to be well heated before adding the dough. Sprinkle a little flour on your hands to avoid sticking. Take a portion of the dough and form balls about the size of an apricot. They will rise slightly during baking, so don’t make them too big.

4. Baking the crackers:
Place the dough balls in the waffle machine, being careful not to overcrowd them. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until they become golden and crispy. It is important not to open the machine before the recommended time to avoid compromising the texture.

5. Serving:
Once the crackers are ready, carefully remove them from the machine. Let them cool slightly before enjoying. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt-based cheese spread for a complete snack.

Practical Tips:

- If you like spicy flavors, you can add chopped black or green olives to the dough for an extra kick.
- Instead of cumin, you might experiment with other spices like oregano or dill to achieve a different aroma.
- These crackers store well in an airtight container, but it's best to consume them the same day to enjoy their crispy texture.
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use cottage cheese instead of aged cheese?
Answer: Cottage cheese is softer and less salty, so it’s recommended to add a little more salt to compensate.

2. What can I do if I don’t have a waffle machine?
Answer: You can bake the crackers on a tray, forming balls and letting them rise in the oven. You will achieve a slightly different texture, but just as delicious.

3. How can I customize the recipe?
Answer: You can add spices like cayenne pepper for a spicy note or even chopped fresh herbs for a vibrant taste.

Nutrition and Calories:
A serving of crackers (approximately 4-5 balls) contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They provide a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, but it's recommended to consume them in moderation, considering the amount of butter and flour.

Other Recipes and Drinks to Pair:
These crackers are excellent alongside a fresh fruit smoothie or herbal tea. You can also serve them with a cream soup or salad.

In conclusion, waffle machine crackers are a perfect choice for moments when you want to impress without spending much time in the kitchen. Enjoy every bite and savor the flavors!