Cheese pastries

Cheese Straws - A Crunchy and Flavorful Delicacy

Who doesn't love a crunchy and savory snack? Cheese straws are an excellent choice for any time of the day, whether you want to serve them at a party, bring them to a gathering with friends, or simply indulge in a delicious snack. These cheese straws are not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile, allowing you to customize them according to your preferences.

A brief history of cheese straws takes us back in time when simple dough, made with accessible ingredients, was used to create quick and satisfying snacks. This was an ingenious way to utilize available ingredients, resulting in a perfect combination of texture and flavor.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 cheese straws

Ingredients

- 1 kg flour (choose a quality flour, preferably type 00 for a finer texture)
- 250 g melted lard (or you can use butter for a richer taste)
- 1 cup sweet milk or yogurt (milk adds moisture, while yogurt gives a tangy note)
- Yeast the size of a small walnut (about 15 g fresh or 7 g dry)
- ½ cup grated cheese (choose your preferred cheese for a personalized flavor)
- A pinch of salt
- Poppy seeds or sesame seeds for decoration

Step by step to prepare cheese straws

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in slightly warm milk. Add a pinch of salt and mix well. This step is crucial as activated yeast will make the cheese straws fluffier.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the sifted flour. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Then, add the melted lard. Use a spatula to incorporate the ingredients, then knead with your hands to obtain a homogeneous and elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

3. Resting the dough: Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting time will allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to shape later.

4. Shaping the cheese straws: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll each part into a thin sheet (about 5 mm thick). Brush each sheet with beaten egg, then generously sprinkle the grated cheese.

5. Cutting and decorating: Cut the dough into sticks (about 1-2 cm wide). Place the sticks on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle poppy or sesame seeds on top, according to preference.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cheese straws for 15 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy. When ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a rack.

Serving and pairings

Cheese straws are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with various dips, such as a garlic yogurt dip or a spicy tomato sauce. They also pair perfectly with a cold beer or a dry white wine.

Useful tips

- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to add a unique flavor. You can also add dried herbs to the dough (such as oregano or thyme) to enhance the aroma.

- For a crunchier texture: You can let the cheese straws cool on a rack to prevent condensation and maintain the crispy crust.

Nutritional benefits

These cheese straws are rich in carbohydrates from the flour, providing you with energy, while the cheese adds protein and calcium. However, consume them in moderation, considering the fat content from the lard and cheese.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.

2. How can I store the cheese straws?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.

3. Can I freeze the cheese straws?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a tray, frozen, then transfer them to freezer bags. When you want to consume them, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

I hope you enjoy these cheese straws and that they bring a smile to your face and your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!