tender crackers

Flaky Crackers – A Crunchy Delight for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 40-50 crackers

In the culinary world, flaky crackers are those savory and aromatic snacks that make us feel at home, no matter the situation. These little crunchy delights are perfect for parties, gatherings with friends, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. With a fragile texture and rich flavor, flaky crackers are an excellent choice for any time of the day.

The history of crackers is fascinating, as they have been appreciated over time in various cultures as a quick and satisfying snack. Whether served with a glass of wine or alongside a festive meal, these little treats remind us of the pleasant moments spent in the company of loved ones. Now, let’s move on to the recipe!

Ingredients

- 1 kg of flour
- 200 g of lard
- 250 g of margarine
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 3 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of sour cream
- 100 ml of lukewarm milk
- Yeast (about the size of a walnut)
- Sesame and/or poppy seeds (for decoration)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the yeast with 100 ml of lukewarm milk and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let this mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast, ensuring that your crackers will be flaky and fluffy.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt. Make sure the salt is well distributed through the flour, as this will influence the final taste of the crackers.

3. Incorporating the fats: Add the lard and margarine to the bowl with flour. Use your fingers to rub them into the flour until the mixture becomes crumbly. This step is crucial for achieving a light and crunchy texture.

4. Adding the eggs and sour cream: In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with a pinch of salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and sour cream, mixing well. Pour this mixture over the flour with lard and margarine.

5. Kneading the dough: Knead the ingredients until you obtain a uniform dough. If it is too dry, you can add a little milk, and if it is too sticky, add a bit more flour. The dough should be easy to handle but not sticky.

6. Resting the dough: Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rest for 30 minutes. This resting time helps the gluten in the flour relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

7. Shaping the crackers: On a floured work surface, roll out the dough into a sheet about 5 mm thick. Brush the surface with the beaten egg and sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds, as preferred. Use a small grater to add grated cheese on top for extra flavor and a special aroma.

8. Cutting and arranging: Cut the dough into sticks of the desired size and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between them, as they will rise during baking.

9. Baking the crackers: Preheat the oven to 200°C (high heat) and bake the crackers for 20-25 minutes, or until they become golden and crunchy. Be careful, as every oven bakes differently; it’s good to check on them from time to time.

10. Cooling and serving: Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool on a rack. They will become even crunchier as they cool.

Practical Tips

- Selecting ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Lard adds a rich flavor, while margarine provides a soft texture. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use butter instead of margarine.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding spices like sweet paprika, garlic powder, or herbs to the dough for a personalized touch.
- Serving: These flaky crackers are perfect alongside a glass of white wine or a cold beer. You can also serve them with a cheese spread or hummus for a heartier snack.
- Storage: If you have leftover crackers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. They will remain delicious and crunchy!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 7 g of dry yeast and follow the usual activation steps.

2. How can I make the crackers less salty?
By reducing the amount of salt in the recipe, you can control the taste. You can also omit the grated cheese for a lighter option.

3. Can I add vegetables to the dough?
Yes, you can add chopped or diced vegetables, such as olives or peppers, for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Flaky crackers provide a quick source of energy due to the carbohydrates in the flour, and the fats from lard and margarine contribute to the caloric intake. Moderation in consuming crackers can brighten any meal, but it’s important to enjoy them in moderation, considering their fat content.

In conclusion, flaky crackers are an excellent choice to delight your taste buds and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. With this simple and quick recipe, you can transform basic ingredients into a delicious and versatile snack. Enjoy!