Bread - Slices with cheese and garlic
Cheese and Garlic Bread - A Special Recipe for Delicious Moments
What can be more comforting than the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the entire house with an inviting smell? And if this bread is filled with creamy cottage cheese, fragrant garlic, and a few fresh herbs, then you have discovered the perfect recipe for a memorable breakfast or dinner. This cheese and garlic bread recipe is not only simple but also easily customizable, giving you the chance to leave your mark in the kitchen.
Total Preparation Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 35 minutes
- Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Number of Servings: 8
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 320 ml lukewarm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for a rich flavor and tender texture)
- 550 g white flour (you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 g)
For the filling:
- 300 g sweet cottage cheese (preferably fresh and of good quality)
- 1 bunch of wild garlic (frozen or fresh) or fresh parsley
- 4 cloves of garlic (adjustable according to preference)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 70 g butter (melted, to bind the filling ingredients)
Step by Step
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by adding the ingredients to the bread machine's bowl. Pour in the lukewarm milk first, then add the salt, sugar, olive oil, flour, and dry yeast. It is important to follow the order of the ingredients to achieve an optimal dough texture.
2. Let the Dough Rise
Set the bread machine to the kneading program and let the dough rise for 20 minutes in a warm place. You can leave it in the kitchen, covered with a damp towel, to prevent drying out.
3. Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mash the cottage cheese with a fork. Add salt, pepper, chopped wild garlic or parsley, crushed garlic, and melted butter. Mix well until you obtain a smooth paste. This cheese spread will add a wonderful flavor to your bread.
4. Shape the Bread
After the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1 cm thick. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving 1-2 cm edges to prevent the filling from spilling out.
5. Cutting and Arranging
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into squares the size of the baking tray you will use. Stack a few slices on top of each other, then place them in the bread pan, continuing to add the remaining slices until the pan is full.
6. Second Rising
Let the bread rise for 15 minutes in an oven preheated to 50 degrees Celsius. This step will help develop the structure of the dough.
7. Baking
Increase the oven temperature to 175 degrees Celsius and bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until it turns golden and browned on top. It is important not to open the oven door during baking, as this can affect the rising process.
8. Cooling and Serving
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes, then remove it onto a wooden board. Tear off warm slices of bread and enjoy them with a yogurt dip or a fresh salad.
Practical Tips
- Ingredient Care: Use fresh cottage cheese to achieve a delicious filling. If using frozen wild garlic, make sure to thaw and dry it well before adding it to the filling.
- Variations: You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella for a different texture. You can also add herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving: This bread is perfect served warm, but can also be kept cold. It is ideal as an appetizer or as a side dish for soups and salads.
Nutritional Information
Each slice of cheese and garlic bread contains about 200 calories, making it a satisfying yet healthy option. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, and garlic provides immune system benefits, having antibacterial properties as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a combination of white and whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- How can I keep the bread fresh longer?
The bread can be kept in a paper bag or an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for later consumption.
- What drinks pair well with this bread?
It pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a blonde beer, but it is just as delicious alongside a hot tea.
This cheese and garlic bread recipe is not just a great way to indulge yourself, but also to gather family and friends around the table, sharing delicious moments and unforgettable memories. So put on your apron and use your creativity to bring this delicious recipe to life! Enjoy!
Ingredients: For the dough: 320 ml warm milk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon sugar, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 550 g white flour, 1 packet of dry yeast. For the filling: 300 g sweet cow cheese, 1 bunch of wild garlic (frozen) or fresh parsley, 4 cloves of garlic, salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, 70 g butter.
