Savory pastries with cumin and cheese

Cumin and Cheese Crackers – A Crispy Delight for Any Occasion

Who doesn’t love the warm and inviting aroma of freshly baked crackers? These cumin and cheese crackers are a perfect choice for a quick snack, an appetizer at a party, or simply to indulge during the day. This dish brings a touch of tradition and comfort to any home, and the recipe I will share with you is simple yet full of flavor.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 24 crackers

Ingredients you need:

- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 2 eggs (one for brushing)
- 150 g lard (or butter for a finer version)
- 100 g oil (olive or sunflower)
- 50 g grated cheese (ideally aged cheese for a more intense flavor)
- Cumin (to taste; you can also use ground cumin for a subtler aroma)
- Salt (1-2 teaspoons, depending on preference)

A brief story about crackers:

Crackers have a rich history and are found in various forms in many culinary cultures. These savory appetizers, often served alongside drinks, have been appreciated over time for their crispy texture and the way they can be customized with different flavors. Cumin, a key ingredient in this recipe, adds a distinct note and aroma that enriches the tasting experience.

Step by step to make the most delicious crackers:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by placing the flour in a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the fresh yeast. Dissolve the yeast in warm water (about 100 ml) and let it sit for 15 minutes. This step is essential to activate the yeast and achieve a fluffy dough.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk one egg with a pinch of salt. Add the yeast mixture to the bowl with flour, along with the fat (lard or butter) and oil. Mix all the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous dough. If the dough sticks, you can add a little oil to your hands or the working surface to facilitate kneading.

3. Kneading the dough:
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. I recommend covering the dough with a damp cloth and letting it rise in a warm place for 40 minutes or until it doubles in volume.

4. Shaping the crackers:
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle flour on the working surface and roll it out into a thin sheet about 5 mm thick. Use a knife to cut the crackers into squares or desired shapes. A trick I use is to make smaller squares for crispier and easier-to-eat crackers.

5. Adding toppings:
Beat the other egg and brush the crackers with it using a kitchen brush. Sprinkle the grated cheese and cumin on top. You can experiment with different types of cheese or even spices, depending on your preferences.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray with the crackers in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread in the house will be irresistible!

7. Serving:
After they have cooled slightly, serve the crackers warm, alongside a cold beer or a glass of white wine. They can also be an excellent appetizer for an evening with friends.

Practical tips:

- Variations of ingredients: You can replace the cheese with feta cheese for a saltier note or add chopped black olives for a Mediterranean taste.
- Storing the crackers: If you have leftover crackers, store them in an airtight container. I recommend reheating them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.
- Nutritional values: One serving of crackers (about 2-3 pieces) has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients. The fat in the recipe gives them a delicious taste, but you can opt for healthier versions.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with dry yeast (about 10 g). Make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.

2. How can I make the crackers spicier?
Add a few chili flakes to the dough or sprinkle paprika on top before baking.

3. Can the crackers be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the crackers after they have completely cooled. I recommend separating them with baking paper to avoid sticking.

In conclusion, these cumin and cheese crackers are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them at a party, a picnic, or as a family snack, they are sure to be appreciated by everyone. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on the recipe. Enjoy!