This Stuffed Vegetable and Cheese Bread is a delightful and hearty dish that combines a soft, fluffy dough with a rich filling of mashed potatoes, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cheeses. Perfect for any meal, this bread is sure to impress with its delicious flavor and comforting texture. Whether served warm as a main course or a side dish, it’s a versatile recipe that the whole family will love.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Rising: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cooking: 25-30 minutes
- Total: 2 hours 25 minutes
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 Eggs
- 250 ml Warm Milk
- 200 ml Warm Water
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1 tbsp Active Dry Yeast
- 450 g Flour
Filling:
- 2 Potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 Bell Pepper, finely chopped
- 1 Tomato, finely chopped
- 100 g (3.5 oz) Cheese, grated (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- 50 g (1.75 oz) Cottage Cheese
- Olive Oil, for sautéing
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 250 ml warm milk, 200 ml warm water, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tbsp active dry yeast.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough:
- Lightly beat 2 eggs and add them to the yeast mixture along with 0.5 tsp salt.
- Gradually add 450 g 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:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- While the dough is rising, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the finely chopped bell pepper and tomato until soft.
- Mix the Filling:
- 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:
- Roll the Dough:
- 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.
- Add the Filling:
- 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:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Bake the Bread:
- 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:
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool slightly before cutting into slices. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stuffed bread as a main dish alongside a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup. It also makes a great appetizer or snack, and can be served with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.
Cooking Tips
- Check Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more milk.
- Even Baking: Rotate the bread halfway through baking for even browning.
- Fluffy Texture: Ensure proper kneading and rising times for a light and fluffy texture.
Nutritional Benefits
This bread provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates from the dough, proteins from the cheeses and eggs, and vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It’s a wholesome meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Customizable: Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family Tradition: A comforting recipe that brings family memories to life.
- Versatile: Perfect for various meals and occasions.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of vegetables, cheeses, and fluffy bread is irresistible.
Conclusion
This Stuffed Vegetable and Cheese Bread is a delightful and versatile addition to any meal. With its fluffy texture, delicious flavor, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy baking this traditional bread and savor the rich, comforting flavors with your family and friends!