Ingredients

For the Dough:

• Lukewarm milk: 200 ml
• Lukewarm water: 200 ml
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon
• Instant yeast: 1 tablespoon (9 g)
• Egg: 1
• Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons
• Flour: 800 g
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5 g)

For the Tomato Glaze:

• Tomato paste: 3 tablespoons
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Oregano: To taste
• Coriander powder: To taste
• Water: 1 tablespoon

For the Filling:

• Cheese: As needed (mozzarella, feta, or a mix)
• Parsley: Finely chopped

For Brushing:

• Egg yolk: 1
• Milk: 2 tablespoons

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• First Rise Time: 1 hour
• Shaping and Filling Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2.5 hours

Servings and Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 bread boats
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 250 kcal
• Macronutrients (per serving):
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fat: 8 g

Steps to Make Soft Cheese-Stuffed Bread Boats

1. Activate the Yeast

• In a large mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk, lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active.

2. Prepare the Dough

• Add the egg, vegetable oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
• Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spoon or your hands, until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Tomato Glaze

• In a small bowl, mix tomato paste, olive oil, oregano, coriander powder, and water until smooth. Set aside.

5. Shape the Bread Boats

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air.
• Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into an oval shape.
• Fold the edges inward and pinch the ends to form a boat shape.

6. Add the Filling

• Place a generous amount of cheese and chopped parsley in the center of each bread boat.

7. Second Rise

• Arrange the bread boats on a greased baking tray, leaving space between them. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for 20 minutes.

8. Brush and Glaze

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
• Brush the edges of the bread boats with the egg yolk and milk mixture for a golden finish.
• Spread the tomato glaze over the filling for added flavor.

9. Bake the Bread Boats

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

10. Serve

• Allow the bread boats to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best experience.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The beauty of bread lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to different cuisines and flavors. These Soft Cheese-Stuffed Bread Boats are a modern take on traditional stuffed bread recipes that have been cherished for centuries. The soft, pillowy dough contrasts beautifully with the rich, gooey cheese, while the tomato glaze adds a tangy, herbaceous kick.

This recipe is timeless because it brings people together. Whether served at a casual gathering or a festive occasion, these bread boats are a crowd-pleaser. The combination of simple ingredients, aromatic spices, and comforting flavors makes this dish universally appealing.

Additionally, the recipe allows for endless customization. Swap the cheese for your favorite variety, add cooked meat or vegetables to the filling, or experiment with different herbs in the glaze. This adaptability ensures that the recipe remains relevant across generations and occasions.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g

FAQs

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, substitute 9 g of instant yeast with 11 g of dry yeast. Activate it in lukewarm milk and water with sugar before adding the other ingredients.

2. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 12 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and filling.

3. What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella, feta, or a combination of both work wonderfully. You can also experiment with cheddar or cream cheese for added richness.

Tips for Perfect Bread Boats

1. Soft Dough: Ensure the dough is soft but not sticky. Add flour gradually to achieve the right consistency.
2. Avoid Overfilling: Be generous with the cheese but leave enough room for the dough to rise and bake evenly.
3. Custom Glaze: Enhance the tomato glaze with a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick or smoked paprika for depth.
4. Golden Edges: Brushing the edges with the egg yolk and milk mixture ensures a glossy, golden crust.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftover bread boats in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 150°C (300°F) to restore their freshness.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked bread boats for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough and filling a day in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Soft Cheese-Stuffed Bread Boats with Herb Tomato Glaze are a celebration of comfort and creativity in the kitchen. This recipe transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a dish that feels indulgent yet homely. The combination of soft, airy bread, melty cheese, and flavorful glaze creates a sensory experience that’s hard to resist.

What makes this dish truly special is its ability to adapt to various tastes and occasions. Whether you’re serving them as a family dinner centerpiece, a snack for game night, or a side dish at a festive gathering, these bread boats never fail to impress. Their timeless appeal lies in their simplicity, versatility, and the joy they bring to anyone who tastes them.

Baking these bread boats is not just about creating food—it’s about crafting a moment. From the satisfying kneading of the dough to the tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, every step is an experience to cherish. Gather your loved ones, serve these delicious bread boats warm, and watch as they disappear within minutes. Here’s to a recipe that’s more than just a meal—it’s a tradition waiting to be shared and savored for years to come.