Cheese pie

Cheese Pie - A classic recipe full of flavor

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

The history of cheese pie is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. This dish has often been a popular choice for family meals, being not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Today, I invite you to discover a simple recipe, yet with an incredible taste, that will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- ½ cube of fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 150 ml warm water
- 50 ml oil

For the filling:
- 500 g salty cheese (ideally cottage cheese or telemea cheese)
- 2 eggs
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Cumin, to taste

For brushing:
- 1 egg
- Oil for greasing the tray

Preparing the cheese pie requires a few simple but essential steps to achieve a perfect result. Here’s how to proceed:

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the flour, salt, and sugar. These ingredients will form the base of the dough, and the sugar will help activate the yeast. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the crumbled fresh yeast. Gradually pour in the warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon. Then, add the oil and continue kneading until you obtain a firm and homogeneous dough.

Practical tips: Use lukewarm water, not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If you don’t have fresh yeast, you can use 7 g of dry yeast, but in this case, mix it with the flour before adding the other ingredients.

Step 2: Proofing the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, until it doubles in size. This is the perfect time to prepare the filling.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
In another bowl, crumble the salty cheese or, if you prefer, you can grate it. Add the beaten eggs and chopped dill, mixing well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. The dill will add an unmistakable fragrance, and the combination with the cheese will turn the pie into a real delight.

Step 4: Forming the pie
After the dough has risen, break off a piece of it (about one-third) and roll it out on a floured surface until you obtain a thin sheet. Sprinkle the filling evenly over the entire surface of the sheet, then carefully roll the dough, forming a log. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 5: Baking
Place the pies in the greased tray, making sure to leave a little space between them for even baking. Brush the pies with beaten egg and sprinkle cumin on top for a unique taste and aroma. Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and bake the pies for 30-40 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serving
After the pies are baked, let them cool for a few minutes before cutting. Serve the pies warm, alongside a fresh salad or yogurt sauces, for a contrast of flavors and textures. These pies are delicious even cold, so feel free to enjoy them the next day as well.

Nutritional benefits:
Cheese pie is a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs. Additionally, dill adds a boost of antioxidants and vitamins. Depending on the type of cheese used, you can adjust the salt and fat levels, thus obtaining a healthier or more indulgent option.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use sweet cheese?
Yes, but I recommend adding a little salt to the filling to balance the taste.
2. What other herbs can I use in the filling?
Mint, basil, or parsley are excellent options.
3. Can I freeze the pies?
Yes, the pies can be frozen before baking. Make sure to let them thaw completely before baking.

Possible variations:
Experiment with different fillings! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or even minced meat to create a heartier pie. You can also replace salty cheese with sweet cheese, adding a little sugar for a pleasant contrast.

In conclusion, cheese pie is a versatile dish, ideal for any occasion, from a family dinner to a party. With these tips and tricks, you are on your way to becoming an expert in making cheese pie. Enjoy your meal!