Doughs and pastries - Salted roses by Delia E. - Recipia
Savory Roses with Eggplant and Spicy Salami

In a world filled with quick and easy recipes, savory roses stand out with their unique charm and delicious combination of ingredients. This recipe is not just a simple appetizer, but a true culinary masterpiece, perfect for impressing guests or adding a touch of elegance to your festive table. Let’s dive into the magic of this dish together!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours (plus 30 minutes in the tray)
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: Approximately 3 hours
Servings: 8-10 roses

Ingredients

- For the dough:
- 400 g of all-purpose flour (for a fine texture)
- ½ cube of fresh yeast (about 20 g)
- 200 ml of lukewarm water (not hot, to activate the yeast)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 30 g of extra virgin olive oil (for an intense flavor)

- For the filling:
- 1 medium eggplant (a versatile ingredient full of antioxidants)
- 200 g of cheese (choose a mature cheese for a stronger flavor)
- 100 g of spicy salami (for an extra kick)

The story behind the recipe

Savory roses are a modern reinterpretation of savory muffins, inspired by ancient culinary traditions that used yeast dough to create delicious dishes. These roses are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a true visual treat, bringing a splash of elegance to the table. Perfect for serving at parties, festive meals, or simply to pamper the family, these roses can be customized with various fillings based on individual preferences.

Preparation technique

1. Activating the yeast: Start by dissolving the fresh yeast in lukewarm water. Make sure the water is not too hot, or it will kill the yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Preparing the dough: On a wooden board, form a volcano shape with the flour. Add some of the yeast water in the center. Begin mixing the flour with the water using a knife or spatula until a thick dough forms. Add the oil and salt. Gradually add the remaining water, mixing with your hands until the dough becomes smooth.

3. Kneading: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. A good technique is to use your palms to push the dough, then fold it and repeat the process.

4. Rising: Form a ball from the dough and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it doubles in volume.

5. Preparing the filling: Meanwhile, wash the eggplant and slice it thinly lengthwise. You can grill it or bake it in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes with a drizzle of oil and a bit of oregano. This will add a flavorful touch.

6. Preparing the cheese and salami: Cut the cheese into slices about 1.5-2 cm thick. If desired, you can use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or brie, for different flavors. Slice the spicy salami thinly.

7. Forming the roses: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until you have a sheet about 5 mm thick. Brush it with a little oil and cut strips 20-25 cm long and 3 cm wide. On some of the strips, place slices of eggplant and top with slices of cheese. Roll the strip of dough tightly, leaving the base of the rose unfilled.

8. Forming the roses with salami: For the other strips, add slices of spicy salami and cheese. Roll them up in the same way, ensuring the edges are well sealed.

9. Preparing for baking: Place the roses on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them. Use scissors to make small incisions on the top of the roses to help them bloom beautifully during baking. Let them rise in the tray for another 30 minutes.

10. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the roses for 30 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. The aroma that will fill your home is simply irresistible!

Serving suggestions

Savory roses are delicious served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. A wonderful idea is to serve them with a fresh arugula and cherry tomato salad or with a garlic yogurt sauce, which will add a refreshing touch. Additionally, these roses pair perfectly with a glass of white wine or a fruit cocktail, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

Useful tips

- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as roasted peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or feta cheese, to customize the recipe to your tastes.
- The oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavor. It’s a healthy ingredient rich in monounsaturated fats.
- Storage: If you have leftover savory roses, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each savory rose contains approximately 200 calories, depending on the chosen filling. They are a good source of carbohydrates from the flour, protein from the cheese and spicy salami, as well as fiber from the eggplant. When consumed in moderation, these treats can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture and final taste may vary.

- Can I make the dough a day in advance?
Absolutely! You can knead the dough, let it rise, and then put it in the fridge. The next day, let it come to room temperature before using it.

Conclusion

Savory roses are not just a delicious recipe but also a way to bring joy and creativity into the kitchen. With a little patience and passion, you will create an appetizer that will leave a lasting impression. Don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones and enjoy every moment spent around the table!
Doughs and pastries - Salted roses by Delia E. - Recipia

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