Stuffed Meat and Cheese Bread

Stuffed Meat and Cheese Bread are a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. This recipe combines a fluffy, golden dough with a spiced meat filling and melty cheese, resulting in a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal, these rolls are also versatile; you can choose your favorite type of minced meat and customize the spices to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough:

    • 120 ml warm Water
    • 240 ml warm Milk
    • 15 g (1 tbsp) Sugar
    • 8 g (2 tsp) Yeast
    • 40 g (3 tbsp) Olive Oil
  • 540 g All-Purpose Flour
  • 6 g (1 tsp) Salt

For the Filling:

    • 1 tbsp minced Garlic or Paste
    • 200 g (1 medium-sized) Onion (chopped)
    • 400 g minced Meat (mutton, beef, or chicken)
    • 1 tsp Paprika Powder
    • 1 tsp Cumin Powder
    • 1 tsp Oregano
    • 1 tsp Red Pepper
    • 1/2 tsp Turmeric
    • 1 tsp Black Pepper
    • 1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
    • 3 tbsp fresh Coriander (chopped)
    • 1 beaten Egg (for egg wash)

For the Cheese Filling:

    • 400 g (2 cups) Mozzarella Cheese
    • 260 g (1 cup) Feta Cheese / Cottage Cheese
    • 2-3 tbsp fresh green Coriander
    • 1 tsp dried Parsley
    • 1 tsp Aleppo pepper / Red pepper flakes
    • Sesame seeds / Nigella seeds for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

    1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
    2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
    3. Knead the Dough: Mix until a rough dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  1. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

    1. Cook the Onions: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onions; sauté until softened and translucent.
    2. Add Minced Meat: Stir in the minced meat of your choice, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned.
  1. Season the Meat: Add paprika, cumin, oregano, red pepper, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in fresh coriander. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

    1. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, feta cheese, fresh green coriander, dried parsley, and Aleppo pepper. Mix well.
    2. Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions (about 10-12). Roll each piece into a circle (about 5-6 inches in diameter).
  1. Add Fillings: Place a spoonful of the meat filling and a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal tightly.
  2. Egg Wash: Place the filled rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

    1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  1. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips

    • Customize the Filling: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs based on your preferences. Adding chopped bell peppers or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
    • Check the Dough: The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not sticky. Adjust the flour as needed while kneading.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the rolls.

Storage

    • Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
    • Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the oven to restore their texture.
  • Freezing: These rolls can be frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per Roll)

    • Calories: 350 kcal
    • Protein: 18 g
    • Fat: 20 g
    • Carbohydrates: 25 g
    • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugars: 2 g

FAQs

    1. Can I use other types of cheese?
      • Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier flavor.
    1. Is it possible to make the dough without yeast?
      • While this recipe relies on yeast for fluffiness, you can try a quick bread version using baking powder. However, the texture will differ.
    2. What can I serve with these rolls?
        • These savory rolls pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as yogurt sauce or spicy chili sauce, and can be served alongside salads or soups.

    3. Can I make them smaller?
      • Yes! You can make smaller rolls for appetizers. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
  1. What if I have leftover filling?
    • Use any leftover filling in omelets, pasta, or as a topping for rice or salads for a tasty meal.

Conclusion

The Stuffed Meat and Cheese Bread is a culinary masterpiece that combines the heartiness of spiced meat with the creamy richness of cheese, all wrapped in a soft, golden dough. It’s a versatile recipe that seamlessly blends savory, spicy, and creamy flavors, creating a dish that satisfies a wide range of palates. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or a snack, this bread is sure to impress both family and guests alike.

This recipe is more than just food; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors. The fluffy, tender bread encases a bold, aromatic filling of perfectly spiced minced meat, while the cheese filling provides a luscious contrast that melts in your mouth. The addition of sesame or nigella seeds on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a nutty crunch that takes the experience to another level.

Perfect for festive occasions, family gatherings, or even a comforting dinner, this bread embodies the joy of sharing a homemade dish. It’s adaptable, allowing you to swap the fillings to suit your preferences or dietary needs, making it a recipe that can evolve with your tastes.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice baker, the Stuffed Meat and Cheese Bread is a rewarding project that’s both fun to make and satisfying to enjoy. It’s a dish that brings people together, reminding us of the comfort and connection that comes from sharing good food. From the first bite to the last, this bread promises warmth, flavor, and a touch of culinary magic that makes it an unforgettable addition to any table.