Homemade Cheese Crackers
I was craving some snacks, but not the traditional puff pastry ones, rather a healthier and more creative version. Thus, I decided to improvise and prepare a base from egg whites and wholemeal flour to create a delicious yet nutritious snack.
The first step was to choose a few fresh eggs, which I carefully separated, leaving the yolks aside for other recipes. I started to whip the egg whites until they became firm and glossy, like a meringue, using a mixer on high speed. This stage is essential because the whipped egg whites will give the base an airy and light texture. After achieving the perfect foam, I added a cup of buttermilk, which provides moisture and tenderness to the mixture. I mixed again, ensuring that the milk was fully incorporated and that I had a voluminous mixture.
Then, I added a pinch of salt and my favorite spices: oregano, basil, white and green pepper, to intensify the flavors. To complete the recipe, I also incorporated a bit of baking powder and wholemeal flour, my preferred choice due to its nutritional benefits. I mixed all the ingredients well, obtaining a homogeneous dough, which I poured into a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Before adding the paper, I lightly greased the tray with oil to prevent sticking.
I placed the tray in the oven on the second rack and let the base bake for about 15 minutes. In the meantime, I prepared the cheese, choosing a goat milk variety, which is much creamier and tastier than cow's milk. I grated it, and its inviting aroma filled the kitchen.
After 15 minutes, I took the tray out of the oven and generously sprinkled the grated cheese over the base. I put the tray back in the oven, allowing it to brown for another 15 minutes on low heat to achieve a golden and crispy crust. When the cheese became perfectly browned, I took the tray out and let it cool.
Once cooled, I gently pulled at the edges of the parchment paper to detach the base, and then I used various-sized cookie cutters to cut out appetizing shapes. If you don't have cookie cutters, no problem; a knife can work wonders.
For an extra flavor boost, I decided to dip some of the snacks in a homemade tomato sauce. I blended two ripe tomatoes, adding fresh basil, white pepper, and a splash of chili to create a flavorful and refreshing sauce. This sauce, alongside the crispy snacks, made for a perfect snack at any time of the day.
Ingredients: -5 egg whites -5 tablespoons of black flour -1 cup of buttermilk or yogurt -baking powder -spices for the dough (salt, chili, white pepper, green pepper, basil, oregano) -100 g cheese -tomato sauce (2 tomatoes, fresh basil, white pepper, chili)
