Crackers

The perfect dessert for indulgent moments: Cheese and poppy seed sticks

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total: 75 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 servings, depending on the size of the cuts

In search of a savory and crunchy appetizer, cheese and poppy seed sticks are the ideal choice. These snacks are not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them with family, these sticks will surely impress.

The history of cheese sticks is lost in the mists of time, but it is known that they have always been appreciated for their crunchy texture and intense flavor. The salty cheese and poppy seeds blend flavors in a way that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:
- 500 g flour
- 100 ml milk
- 1 tablespoon lard
- 5 eggs (plus 1 egg for brushing)
- 250 g margarine
- 350-400 g salty cheese (you can use telemea or feta)
- Yeast (about the size of a walnut)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Poppy seeds (for sprinkling)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Sifting the flour: Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential for obtaining a light and airy dough. Sifted flour will help eliminate any lumps and contribute to a fine texture.

2. Forming the nest: Create a nest in the middle of the flour. This nest will be where you add the wet ingredients.

3. Melting the margarine: In a container, melt the margarine in the microwave, being careful not to boil it. Margarine will provide a rich taste and a soft texture to the dough. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the nest.

4. Adding the ingredients: In the formed nest, add the 5 eggs, grated cheese, warm milk, melted lard, yeast, and salt. Mix everything with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to form.

5. Kneading the dough: Transfer the dough to a work surface and knead it for about 5-10 minutes. The dough is ready when it no longer sticks to your hands and becomes elastic. This stage is crucial for gluten development, which will give the dough a good structure.

6. Rising: Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise for 20-30 minutes in a warm place. This process will allow the yeast to act, and the dough will puff up.

7. Rolling out the dough: Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured work surface. Roll it out into a thin sheet, about 0.5 cm thick.

8. Cutting the strips: Use a knife or a grater to cut the sheet of dough into strips about 2-3 cm wide. Each strip will be twisted to create an interesting appearance.

9. Preparing the tray: Grease the baking tray with a little lard to prevent the sticks from sticking.

10. Forming the sticks: Twist each strip of dough and place them in the tray, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion during baking.

11. Brushing and sprinkling: Beat the remaining egg and brush each stick with a thin layer. This step will help the sticks achieve a golden and shiny crust. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top, adding a crunchy note and a delicious taste.

12. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the tray with the sticks inside. Bake them for 20-25 minutes or until they become golden and crunchy. It is important to watch them in the last minutes of baking to avoid burning.

13. Cooling and serving: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the sticks cool slightly. They can be served warm or at room temperature.

Useful tips:
- Cheese variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, for a different taste.
- Whole wheat flour: If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour, although the texture will be slightly different.
- Flavoring: Add dried herbs or spices (e.g., oregano or paprika) to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving: These sticks are excellent alongside a yogurt or tzatziki sauce, but they also pair well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Nutritional benefits:
Salty cheese provides protein and calcium, while poppy seeds bring healthy fatty acids. This appetizer is rich in nutrients, but should be consumed in moderation, considering the calorie content.

Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories per stick (depending on the ingredients used and size).

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package.
- How can I store the sticks? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunchiness.

These cheese and poppy seed sticks are not only a simple recipe but also an opportunity to explore creativity in the kitchen. Whether you prepare them for a party or as a personal treat, I guarantee they will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!