Flatbreads with cheese

Delicious Cheese Flatbread Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4 flatbreads

Discover the charm of cheese flatbreads, a recipe that combines simplicity with the rich flavor of cheese. These flatbreads are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a hearty lunch. The history of flatbreads dates back centuries, appreciated in various cultures for their versatility and ease of preparation. Each bite brings a touch of comfort, and the cheese, the main ingredient, offers an intense and creamy taste.

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 200 ml lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 300 g + 50 g type 650 flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil for extra flavor)

*For the filling:*
- 250 g sheep cheese (or a combination of cottage cheese and feta for a different texture)

Step by step:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, add the fresh yeast along with the sugar. Pour in the lukewarm water (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast) and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This is a crucial step for achieving a fluffy dough.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour (300 g) with the salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and oil. Start mixing with a spatula or your hands, gradually incorporating the flour into the liquid. Once the mixture becomes homogeneous, transfer it to a work surface and knead the dough for 10 minutes. The dough should become elastic and no longer stick to your hands or the work surface.

3. Letting the dough rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place, preferably near a heat source, for about 60 minutes or until it doubles in volume.

4. Preparing the filling: Meanwhile, prepare the cheese filling. You can use sheep cheese or a combination of cottage cheese and feta. If desired, you can also add herbs like dill or oregano for extra flavor. Mix the cheese with a fork until creamy.

5. Shaping the flatbreads: Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured work surface. Divide it into four equal pieces. Take each piece and roll it out with a rolling pin until you have a thin disc. Place a portion of the cheese filling in the center of the disc and fold the edges like an envelope, ensuring the filling is well sealed inside.

6. Baking the flatbreads: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 15 minutes. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.

7. Serving: Let the flatbreads cool slightly before cutting. They are served warm but are also delicious at room temperature. You can add a garlic yogurt sauce or a fresh salad on the side.

Practical tips:
- If you want a fluffier flatbread, you can add an egg to the dough.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as spinach and feta or sautéed mushrooms with cottage cheese.
- Store the flatbreads in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
- Sheep cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while flatbread dough provides essential carbohydrates for energy.
- These flatbreads can be included in a balanced diet, having a moderate calorie content (approximately 250 calories per flatbread, depending on the filling).

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, use about 8 g of dry yeast.
- How can I make the flatbreads healthier? You can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour.
- What drinks pair well with cheese flatbreads? I recommend natural yogurt or herbal tea for a pleasant contrast.

Regardless of the occasion, cheese flatbreads are a perfect choice. Bring taste and warmth into your kitchen and savor each delicious bite!