A delicious and easy-to-make snack that will impress your family and friends: Cheesy Herb-Filled Snacks. These savory bites are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a party with friends, or simply a quick and satisfying snack.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 250 g of flour
- A pinch of salt
- 30 g of melted butter
- 120 ml of water (approx.)
- For the Filling:
- Mozzarella or cheddar cheese (your choice)
- Oregano or thyme (your choice)
- For Cooking:
- Vegetable oil (for frying) or egg yolk (for baking)
Method:
Prepare the Dough:
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 250 g of flour with a pinch of salt.
- Add Butter: Add 30 g of melted butter and mix well.
- Add Water: Gradually add about 120 ml of water while mixing until a dough forms.
Rest the Dough:
- Cover and Rest: Cover the dough with cling film and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Roll Out the Dough:
- Roll Thin: After resting, roll out the dough thinly on a floured surface.
- Cut Circles: Cut the dough into circles of your desired diameter using a cookie cutter or a glass.
- Keep Covered: Keep the remaining dough covered with cling film to prevent it from drying out.
Add Cheese and Herbs:
- Add Cheese: Place a small amount of mozzarella or cheddar cheese in the center of each dough circle.
- Sprinkle Herbs: Sprinkle with a pinch of oregano or thyme.
Seal the Snacks:
- Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the cheese to form a half-moon shape or another preferred shape. Press the edges firmly to seal.
Cook the Snacks:
Frying Option: 11. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. 12. Fry: Fry the snacks until they are golden brown on all sides.
Baking Option: 11. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). 12. Brush with Egg Yolk: Brush the snacks with egg yolk. 13. Bake: Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
- As Appetizers: Serve these snacks as appetizers at your next party. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
- With Soup or Salad: Enjoy these cheesy snacks alongside a bowl of hot soup or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- On-the-Go Snack: Pack them in your lunchbox for a convenient, on-the-go snack that’s both filling and delicious.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese like gouda, pepper jack, or feta for varying flavors.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can also be used to enhance the flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: For an added nutritional boost, include finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms in the filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, such as flour, butter, and cheese.
- Versatile: You can customize the filling with your favorite type of cheese and herbs. Try mozzarella and oregano for a classic flavor or cheddar and thyme for a unique twist.
- Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, making this recipe suitable even for beginner cooks.
- Baking and Frying Options: Depending on your preference, you can either fry these snacks for a crispy finish or bake them for a healthier option.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or a toaster oven to maintain their crispiness.
- Freezing: These snacks can also be frozen. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven.
Nutritional Information (per piece):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 4g
Conclusion
Cheesy Herb-Filled Snacks are a versatile and delightful addition to any meal or occasion. Their simplicity and customizable nature make them a go-to recipe that you can rely on time and again. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick snack, these cheesy bites are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious combination of melted cheese, savory herbs, and crispy pastry. Happy cooking!