Cheese pearls

Cheese Pearls – A delicacy that combines tradition and creativity in every bite

Welcome to the simple yet refined world of cheese pearls! This dish is perfect for a savory breakfast or a delicious snack. The soft dough and rich cheese filling, complemented by enticing flavors, turn every bite into a true delight. I will guide you step by step, providing useful tips, variations, and tricks to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 16 pearls (or one large tart)

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g of flour
- 1 packet of dry yeast (approximately 7 g)
- 200 ml of milk
- Zest of one lemon or orange
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 300 g of cottage cheese (preferably creamy)
- 2 handfuls of grated cheese (optional but recommended)
- A handful of raisins
- Sugar to taste (optional)
- 2 eggs
- 1 essence of rum
- Grated apples (optional, about one 800 ml jar)

A Brief History

Cheese pearls are a traditional dish that evokes memories of festive meals from the past. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a dessert, these pearls are versatility in pure form. Over time, the recipe has been adapted in different cultures, each bringing a touch of uniqueness. Today, I will show you how to recreate this delicacy at home, bringing a bit of the magic of these moments into your kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the dry yeast. This will help to ferment the dough, giving it a fluffy texture.
2. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes. This step is crucial, as the yeast needs time to activate.
3. Meanwhile, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt, then heat the milk in a small pot. Add the butter, sugar, and citrus zest. Stir until the butter is completely melted.
4. Pour the milk and egg mixture over the flour and knead well. The dough should be elastic and slightly sticky.
5. Add the oil and continue kneading for 5-7 minutes. Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 2: Letting the dough rise
1. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm place, away from drafts.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
1. In another bowl, mix the cottage cheese with starch (or semolina), sugar (if desired), egg yolks, rum essence, and grated cheese.
2. Incorporate the raisins and mix well. Finally, beat the egg whites until frothy and add them to the filling, gently mixing to keep the air in the mixture.

Step 4: Shaping the pearls
1. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a round or rectangular shape, depending on your preference.
2. Place a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center of each shape. Seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Tip: Use special molds to achieve a more interesting appearance.

Step 5: Let rise and bake
1. Place the pearls in a greased baking tray, leaving space between them. Cover them again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Once the pearls have risen, brush them with beaten egg for a golden crust.
3. Bake for about 40 minutes, starting with 10 minutes on high heat, then reduce to medium and continue baking.

Step 6: Tart variant
1. If you have leftover dough, roll out a sheet and place it in a greased tart pan. Add the grated apples to the filling and bake just like the pearls. This is a clever way to use every piece of dough and filling!

Final Tips

- Serving: Cheese pearls are served warm, alongside a cup of yogurt or sour cream. You can sprinkle them with powdered sugar for a sweeter dessert.
- Variations: Experiment with different fillings, such as feta cheese with spinach, chocolate, or fruits. This will add a personal touch to the recipe.
- Calories: A serving contains approximately 180-200 kcal, depending on the chosen filling. Adding raisins and cheese increases the nutritional value, providing more protein and calcium.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, ricotta or goat cheese work great.
- How can I store the pearls? They keep well in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven before serving.

These cheese pearls are not just a simple dish, but a culinary experience that brings joy in every bite. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your own personal touches! Happy cooking and good luck!