Stuffed bread

Bread stuffed with olives, cheese, and chicken ham

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 8

Introduction
Stuffed bread is a delicacy that combines the fluffy texture of the dough with a savory filling, creating a perfect appetizer or delicious snack. This simple recipe, which can be made using a bread machine, is ideal for using leftover dough from focaccia, but can easily be adapted to individual preferences. With a combination of flavorful ingredients, you will create a bread that will surely delight your loved ones.

History and Inspiration
Stuffed bread is a dish found in many cultures, each contributing with local ingredients. Over time, it has been considered both a staple food and a festive platter, especially at special events. This recipe is a modern reinterpretation that preserves tradition while adding a touch of originality through the chosen ingredients.

Ingredients
For the dough:
- 230 g white flour
- 15 ml olive oil
- 150 ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast

For the filling:
- 100 g olives (preferably green and black olives for a balanced taste)
- 150 g cheese (can be replaced with mozzarella for a creamier texture)
- 100 g chicken ham (or a vegetarian alternative, such as marinated tofu)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the dough
Start by adding the liquid ingredients to the bread machine: warm water and olive oil. This step is essential to activate the yeast, so make sure the water is not too hot, otherwise it will kill the yeast.

2. Adding the solid ingredients
After adding the liquids, add the sugar, salt, and flour. Finally, sprinkle the dry yeast on top of the flour. Make sure not to mix the yeast directly with the salt, as salt can inhibit the action of the yeast.

3. Dough rising
Set the bread machine to the kneading and rising program. Let the dough rise for about an hour, until it doubles in volume. This is the ideal time to prepare the filling.

4. Preparing the filling
Cut the olives, cheese, and chicken ham into small cubes. Make sure the ingredients are evenly cut to allow for even distribution in the dough. An interesting alternative would be to add a few fresh basil leaves for an extra flavor.

5. Shaping the bread
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough into a rectangular sheet. Make sure it is even, with a thickness of about 1 cm. On 2/3 of the surface of the sheet, evenly sprinkle the prepared filling.

6. Rolling the dough
Start rolling the dough from the uncovered edge, being careful not to press too hard. The resulting roll should be tight, but not so much that it tears the dough. Once finished, seal the edges to enclose the filling inside.

7. Placing in the pan
Grease a pan with a little olive oil and place the rolled dough inside. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 20 minutes. This step will allow the bread to become even fluffier.

8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. This is the moment when the delicious smell will fill the entire kitchen!

9. Finishing
After removing the bread from the oven, brush it with a little olive oil for a shiny appearance and to add a touch of flavor.

Serving suggestions
This stuffed bread is delicious both warm and cold. It can be served as an appetizer, alongside a fresh salad, or as part of a cheese and cold cuts platter. Feel free to pair it with a refreshing drink, such as white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade.

Possible variations
- Try replacing the filling with grilled vegetables or various types of cheese.
- Add some herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, for an extra flavor.
- Use wholemeal dough for a healthier option.

Nutritional information
This stuffed bread recipe has approximately 250 calories per serving, being a good source of carbohydrates and proteins, thanks to the ingredients used. The olives add healthy fats, while the cheese and ham contribute to the protein intake.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole flour or a combination of white and whole flour, but make sure to adjust the liquid quantities, as whole flour absorbs more water.

- What can I do if I don’t have a bread machine?
You can knead the dough by hand, mixing the ingredients in a bowl and kneading it on a work surface for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

- How can I keep the bread fresh?
Stuffed bread can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for long-term storage.

This recipe for stuffed bread with olives, cheese, and chicken ham is an excellent choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it will surely become a favorite in your family. So gather the ingredients and start your culinary adventure! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 230 g white flour, 15 ml olive oil, 150 ml lukewarm water, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon dry yeast. For the filling: olives, cheese, chicken ham.

 Tags:  flour yeast olives chicken ham cheese