This recipe from your grandmother is sure to bring warmth and joy to any meal, combining the simple pleasures of homemade bread with a rich and savory filling. It’s perfect for sharing and is bound to become a cherished recipe in your family!
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
Filling:
- 2 Potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 Bell Pepper, finely chopped
- 1 Tomato, finely chopped
- 3.5 oz Cheese, grated (your choice, such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1.75 oz Cottage Cheese
- Olive Oil, for sautéing
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Beat the eggs lightly and add them to the yeast mixture along with the salt.
- Gradually add flour, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms. You might need slightly more or less flour based on humidity and egg size.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped bell pepper and tomato until soft.
- In a large bowl, mix the sautéed vegetables with the mashed potatoes, grated cheese, and cottage cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool.
Assemble the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part into a large circle or rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread the vegetable and cheese filling evenly over one of the dough sheets, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Cover with the second sheet of dough, and pinch the edges to seal them together.
Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Place the stuffed dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with olive oil or a beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Serve:
- Let the bread cool slightly before cutting into slices. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a Side: This stuffed bread pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup.
- As a Snack: Cut into smaller pieces and serve as an appetizer or party snack with a dipping sauce like marinara or garlic aioli.
- Brunch Option: Great for brunch alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
Cooking Tips:
- Check the Dough: Make sure your dough is not too sticky. Add flour gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
- Even Sautéing: Ensure the vegetables are evenly sautéed for a consistent filling texture.
- Seal Well: Pinch the edges of the dough firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein and Calcium: The cheese and eggs provide a good amount of protein and calcium.
- Vitamins and Fiber: Vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, and tomatoes add vitamins and dietary fiber.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil offers healthy monounsaturated fats beneficial for heart health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Customization: Can be adapted to include other vegetables or protein sources according to dietary needs.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed bread for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through to maintain crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Family Favorite: It’s a comforting, homemade dish that brings back memories of family gatherings.
- Versatile: Perfect for any meal of the day, from breakfast to dinner.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for home cooks.
Conclusion:
Enjoy this stuffed bread hot and fresh from the oven. The combination of a soft, fluffy dough with a savory, cheesy filling is sure to satisfy your taste buds. This dish not only offers a delicious meal but also carries the warmth and love of homemade cooking. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it as a snack, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.