Spinach with cheese in leavened dough

Spinach with Cheese in Leavened Dough - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Discover the charm of a traditional recipe, perfect for any occasion, that combines the wonderful taste of spinach with the fluffy texture of leavened dough. This spinach and cheese in leavened dough recipe is not only nutritious but also an excellent choice to bring family and friends to the table. So, get ready for a culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 600 g flour (choose a high-quality flour for optimal results)
- 25 g fresh yeast (check the expiration date to ensure it is active)
- 2 whole eggs (preferably at room temperature to help activate the yeast)
- 300-350 ml lukewarm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 1 teaspoon salt (helps develop flavors in the dough)
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive oil or vegetable oil for a richer taste)

*For the filling:*
- 1 kg fresh spinach or 500 g frozen (fresh spinach offers a more intense flavor)
- 300 g slightly salty cow cheese (you can also use feta cheese for a different taste)
- 1 onion (for added flavor, you can opt for green onion or red onion)

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, sift the flour to aerate its texture. Add the eggs and salt. In another container, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk. Mix well to ensure the yeast is completely dissolved. Then, gradually pour the milk-yeast mixture over the flour, mixing continuously.

2. Kneading the dough:
Once all the ingredients are well incorporated, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This step is essential as it helps develop the gluten, which will give the dough a fluffy texture. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

3. Preparing the filling:
If using fresh spinach, wash it well and blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain it well. In a pan, sauté the finely chopped onion in a little oil over low heat until it becomes translucent. Add the drained spinach and mix well. Let the mixture cool, then add the grated cheese and a beaten egg. Mix everything until well combined.

4. Forming the dish:
After the dough has risen, knead it again for 2-3 minutes, then roll it out on a floured work surface, forming a long strip about 1-1.2 m long and 20 cm wide. Evenly distribute the spinach and cheese filling along the entire length of the dough.

5. Rolling and baking:
Gently roll the dough with the filling to form a long log. Then, wrap it lightly to create a large spiral. Place it in a greased tray or lined with baking paper. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C. Prick the spiral with a fork in several places to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush it with beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust.

6. Baking:
Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until the dough is golden and well-baked. The delicious aroma will fill the entire house!

7. Serving:
Allow the dish to cool slightly before cutting it. You can serve this delight warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce. It is perfect for a family lunch or a dinner with friends.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley to the spinach filling.
- For a vegetarian option, you can replace the cheese with crumbled tofu or soy cheese.
- If you have time, let the dough rise longer for an even fluffier texture.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, while spinach provides a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, vitamin A, and iron. Additionally, the leavened dough offers carbohydrates, essential for energy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables instead of spinach?
Yes, you can experiment with various vegetables, such as nettles or cabbage, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store the dish for later?
If there are leftovers, you can keep the spiral in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

This spinach with cheese in leavened dough dish is not just a simple and quick recipe, but also an excellent way to connect with culinary traditions. Enjoy it with your loved ones and let it become a part of your culinary story!