These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Fried Bread Rolls are a perfect combination of crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Filled with a savory mixture of spinach and cheese, they make for a delightful snack or appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. With a soft dough encasing the flavorful filling, each bite is satisfying and full of rich textures. The best part? They’re easy to make and absolutely delicious!
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 8 cups (875 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- 55 g (4 tablespoons) butter
- 2.5 cups (500 ml) warm water
For the Filling:
- 200 g (about 7 oz) spinach
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- 1 teaspoon (4 g) black pepper
- 100 g (1 cup) grated cheddar cheese or mozzarella
For Frying:
- Liquid oil (for deep frying)
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well.
- Add the butter to the flour mixture and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add warm water to the flour mixture, kneading as you go, until you form a smooth and elastic dough. You may need slightly more or less water depending on the flour’s absorbency.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes to relax.
- Make the Filling:
- Wash the spinach thoroughly and chop it finely.
- In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach with salt, black pepper, and grated cheddar cheese or mozzarella. Combine well to create the filling.
- Assemble and Fry:
- Divide the rested dough into equal-sized portions and roll each portion into a ball.
- Flatten each ball of dough into a small circle using a rolling pin or your hands.
- Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling in the center of each flattened dough circle.
- Fold the edges of the dough circle over the filling to form a ball again, ensuring the filling is enclosed completely.
- Heat a generous amount of liquid oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed bread rolls into the hot oil, one at a time, without overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the rolls until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the rolls are cooked and crispy, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with a side of tangy marinara sauce or creamy garlic yogurt dip.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light and wholesome meal.
- Enjoy them as an appetizer or a snack at a party or gathering.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the dough is kneaded well to develop gluten, which will make the rolls soft and chewy.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy rolls.
- You can experiment with different fillings, like adding mushrooms or feta cheese for variety.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins, and fiber, making these rolls nutritious.
- Cheese provides protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced snack.
- Homemade Dough ensures you control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Nut-Free: Does not contain nuts.
Nutritional Facts (per roll, based on 15 rolls):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Freeze: Freeze the rolls after frying. Reheat them in a preheated oven until heated through and crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy and Cheesy: Perfect combination of textures that everyone loves.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, these rolls fit right in.
- Customizable: You can change up the filling to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.
Conclusion:
These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Fried Bread Rolls are the ultimate comfort food. With their crispy exterior and deliciously cheesy spinach filling, they make for a perfect snack or appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and versatile, they are ideal for both everyday treats and special occasions. Make a batch today and experience a delightful explosion of flavors and textures!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I bake these rolls instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?
- Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Can I make the dough in advance?
- Yes, you can make the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.
- Can I use frozen spinach?
- Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing it with cheese.
- Can I add other spices to the filling?
- Absolutely! Try adding garlic powder, chili flakes, or herbs like dill for extra flavor.
- How do I prevent the rolls from opening while frying?
- Make sure to seal the dough well and avoid overfilling.
- What kind of oil is best for frying?
- A neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, works best.
- Can I add meat to the filling?
- Yes, cooked minced meat like chicken or beef can be added for a non-vegetarian option.
- How can I make these rolls gluten-free?
- Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and adjust the water as needed.
- What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
- Feta, Gouda, or Monterey Jack can be great substitutes or additions.