This stuffed bread recipe is a treasured family secret passed down from my grandmother. It’s a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that combines a soft, homemade dough with a savory filling of potatoes, vegetables, and cheese. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

Dough:

2 Eggs
250 ml Milk, warm

200 ml Warm Water
0.5 tsp Salt
1 tsp Sugar

1 tbsp Yeast (active dry yeast)
450 g Flour (about 3 1/2 cups)

Filling:

2 Potatoes, boiled and mashed

1 Bell Pepper, finely chopped
1 Tomato, finely chopped
3.5 oz Cheese, grated (about 1 cup; your choice, such as cheddar or mozzarella)

1.75 oz Cottage Cheese (about 1/4 cup)
Olive Oil, for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.

Mix the Dough: Add the eggs, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Start mixing with a spoon or a spatula, then switch to your hands or a dough hook if using a stand mixer.
Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Let it Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

Sauté the Vegetables: In a pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped bell pepper and tomato, and sauté until they are soft and any excess moisture has evaporated. This should take about 5 minutes.
Combine the Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sautéed vegetables with the boiled and mashed potatoes, grated cheese, and cottage cheese. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.

3. Assemble the Bread:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove any air bubbles. Divide the dough into portions depending on how large you want your stuffed breads to be. Roll each portion out into a circle or oval on a floured surface.
Add the Filling: Place a generous amount of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal it. You can shape them into small pockets, rolls, or even a large stuffed loaf.
Bake the Bread: Place the stuffed breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rest for 10 minutes to rise slightly. Brush the tops with a little olive oil or an egg wash for a golden finish.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.

4. Serve:

Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy it warm as a delicious meal or snack.

Tips for Success:

Proper Dough Kneading: Kneading the dough well ensures that it is soft and elastic, which will help the bread rise properly and give it a light, fluffy texture.

Sealing the Dough: Make sure to seal the edges of the dough tightly around the filling to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the filling. You can add cooked meat, spinach, mushrooms, or any other favorite ingredients.

Variations:

Cheese and Herb: Add a mixture of different cheeses like feta, parmesan, or blue cheese along with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a flavorful twist.

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
Sweet Option: Try a sweet filling using mashed sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar, or use fruits like apples or berries with a sprinkle of sugar.

Nutritional Information:

This stuffed bread is a balanced meal, providing carbohydrates from the dough, protein from the cheese and potatoes, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It’s a great option for a filling meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions:

As a Main Dish: Serve the stuffed bread with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
As a Snack: These breads are also perfect for snacking or taking on the go, making them a versatile option for any time of the day.
With Dips: Pair with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or a simple yogurt dip for added flavor.

Conclusion:

This Stuffed Bread recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Passed down from my grandmother, this dish is not just delicious but also carries with it the warmth and love of homemade cooking. Whether you’re making it for your family, friends, or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. The soft, fluffy dough paired with the savory filling makes for a comforting and versatile dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and filling.

2. Can I freeze the stuffed bread?

Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the stuffed breads. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

You can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. Cottage cheese adds a nice creaminess to the filling, but you can omit it if you prefer a more traditional filling.

4. How do I keep the bread from becoming soggy?

Make sure the filling ingredients, especially the vegetables, are cooked thoroughly and any excess moisture is evaporated before adding them to the dough. This helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?

Yes, you can substitute some or all of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will make the dough denser, so you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly.

6. Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, cooked ground meat, diced ham, or cooked chicken can be added to the filling for extra protein. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the filling mixture.

7. How long will the stuffed bread stay fresh?

The stuffed bread will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

8. Can I bake the bread in a different shape?

Yes, you can shape the dough into rolls, braids, or even a large loaf. The baking time may vary depending on the size and shape, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.

9. What can I serve with this stuffed bread?

This bread pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, or as a side to grilled meats. It’s also delicious on its own with a simple dip.

10. Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs in the dough with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for the filling.

This Stuffed Bread recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to tradition and family. Passed down from my grandmother, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy, whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating it for a quick snack. The combination of soft dough and savory filling makes it a versatile and delicious addition to any meal plan. Happy baking!

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