This spinach and cheese stuffed fried dough recipe combines a delicious, crispy exterior with a flavorful, cheesy spinach filling. It’s a perfect snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With its golden brown crust and gooey, savory filling, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Follow along to create this mouthwatering treat that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
Dough
- 8 cups all-purpose flour (875 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt (5 g)
- 55 grams butter (1/4 cup)
- 2.5 cups warm water (500 ml)
Stuffing
- 200 grams spinach (7 oz)
- 1 teaspoon salt (5 g)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (4 g)
- 100 grams grated cheddar cheese or mozzarella (1 cup)
Other
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine 8 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add 55 grams of butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add 2.5 cups of warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Stuffing:
- Wash and chop 200 grams of spinach.
- In a bowl, mix the spinach with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 100 grams of grated cheddar cheese or mozzarella.
- Assemble the Stuffed Dough:
- Divide the dough into small, equal-sized portions.
- Roll each portion into a small circle on a floured surface.
- Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
- Fry the Stuffed Dough:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the stuffed dough pieces until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Enjoy with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast in the dough.
- Make sure to seal the edges of the dough well to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber.
- Cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten and dairy.
- Not suitable for those with gluten or dairy allergies.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of crispy dough and savory filling is irresistible.
- It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.
- Easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a fun cooking project.
Conclusion
This spinach and cheese stuffed fried dough is a delightful treat that brings together the best of both worlds: a crispy exterior and a gooey, flavorful interior. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Thank you for trying this recipe, and happy cooking! See you in the next video! 😉
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
- Yes, but the texture may be denser, and you might need to adjust the water amount.
- What other fillings can I use?
- You can use a variety of fillings such as mushrooms, ricotta cheese, or even cooked ground meat.
- Can I bake these instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake them at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- How can I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?
- Keep your hands and the rolling surface lightly floured while working with the dough.
- Can I make the dough in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using.
- Is it necessary to rest the dough?
- Yes, resting the dough helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
- What type of oil is best for frying?
- Use oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze the stuffed dough before frying?
- Yes, you can freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adjusting the frying time as needed.
- How can I make the dough more flavorful?
- Add herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder, dried oregano, or rosemary.