Cheese flatbreads

Cheese flatbreads - a simple, quick, and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Proofing time: 1 hour
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Servings: 4 flatbreads

Who doesn’t love the fresh aroma of warm flatbreads filled with cheese? These delights are so versatile and can be prepared in various ways, either with cheese or cabbage, thus earning them the status of a 'culinary savior' for quick meals. Flatbreads are perfect for both kids, who can take them to school, and adults looking for a healthy snack at the office.

The history of flatbreads is closely tied to the culinary traditions of many cultures. They have evolved over time, becoming a symbol of comfort and family meals. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 300 g + 50 g flour type 650
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil

For the filling:
- 250 g well-kneaded sheep cheese (you can also use cottage cheese or a mix of cheeses, depending on your preferences)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Dissolving the yeast: In a small bowl, add warm water (not hot, as it can kill the yeast), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast, ensuring that the flatbreads will be fluffy and airy.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour (300 g), salt, and oil. Add the activated yeast mixture. Start mixing with a wooden spoon, then knead with your hands until the dough becomes elastic and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If it’s too sticky, gradually add the remaining 50 g of flour.

3. Proofing the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it proof in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. An ideal proofing spot could be near a radiator or in a preheated oven at a very low temperature (about 30°C).

4. Shaping the flatbreads: Once the dough has proofed, transfer it to a floured work surface. Gently knead the dough to release the air and divide it into four equal pieces.

5. Filling and shaping: Take each piece of dough and roll it out with a rolling pin until you get a thin disc. Add the kneaded cheese in the center of each flatbread, then fold the edges to form a parcel. Make sure it is well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

6. Baking the flatbreads: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the flatbreads on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them for even baking. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy.

7. Serving: Let the flatbreads cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed as is, with yogurt or yogurt sauces, or alongside a fresh salad for a healthy lunch.

Useful tips

- Filling variations: If you want to experiment, you can add fresh dill, green onions, or even spinach to the cheese for an extra flavor boost. Another delicious option is a filling with sautéed cabbage, which offers a different texture and taste.

- Oil: Using olive oil adds extra flavor, but you can opt for sunflower oil if you prefer a more neutral taste.

- Calories and nutritional benefits: A cheese flatbread has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Sheep cheese is rich in protein and calcium, essential for bone health, and whole grain flour (if you choose to use it) provides necessary fiber for healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast with 8 g of dry yeast. Mix it directly with the flour.

2. What do I do if the dough doesn’t rise?
Make sure you use warm water, not hot, and that the yeast is fresh. If the dough doesn’t rise, it’s possible that the yeast is inactive.

3. How can I store the flatbreads?
Flatbreads can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or frozen. Before consuming, you can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Serving and combinations

Cheese flatbreads can be a perfect accompaniment to a warm soup or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a garlic yogurt sauce or a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers to add a fresh and refreshing contrast.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of these cheese flatbreads! Bon appétit!