Cheese and caraway pie

Cheese and cumin pie - a traditional delight adapted for modern appreciation! This recipe offers not only a delicious taste but also an experience full of memories and nostalgia. Whether you choose to prepare it for a hearty breakfast, a snack between meals, or an appetizer at a party, this pie will bring smiles to everyone's faces.

Total preparation time: 2 hours (of which 30 minutes of actual work)
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g wheat flour (preferably type 650 for a softer dough)
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 10 g dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil, as preferred)
- 250 ml lukewarm milk (or water, for a lighter version)

For the filling:
- 300-400 g cottage cheese (you can also use feta cheese for a stronger flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of cumin (buy whole cumin and grind it for a fresher taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes for decoration

A brief history

Cheese pies are an integral part of traditional cuisines from many corners of the world, often symbolizing hospitality and tradition. Cumin, an aromatic spice full of character, pairs perfectly with cheese, adding extra flavor and an inviting aroma. This cheese and cumin pie recipe is not just a delicious choice but also a way to bring culinary traditions into everyday life.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the dough

The first step is to take care of the dough. Yeast is the key ingredient that will make the pie fluffy and delicious. Start by mixing the yeast with the sugar in a small bowl. Add a few tablespoons of lukewarm milk and mix well until it liquefies. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it starts bubbling - this is the sign that the yeast is active.

In a large bowl, place the flour and add the salt. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture. Add the remaining lukewarm milk mixed with olive oil. Start mixing the ingredients using a wooden spoon or spatula.

2. Kneading the dough

Once the ingredients are well combined, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and non-sticky. If you feel it's too sticky, add a little more flour, but don't overdo it to avoid weighing down the dough.

Practical tips:
- If you have a bread machine, you can use the kneading and rising program, which will save you time and effort.
- Make sure the dough is covered with a clean towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out during rising.

3. Rising the dough

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, until it doubles in size. A warm place away from drafts is ideal for this stage.

4. Preparing the filling

Meanwhile, you can prepare the filling. In a bowl, place the cottage cheese and mix it with the eggs using a hand blender or whisk until you get a smooth cream. Add the cumin, salt, and pepper to taste and mix the composition well.

Possible variations:
- You can add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor and aroma.
- Substitute cottage cheese with feta or ricotta for a different texture.

5. Forming the pies

After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface and roll it out to about 0.5 cm thick. Use a glass or round cutter to cut out circles of dough. Arrange the dough circles in the bottom of a greased ceramic dish, covering the sides well.

6. Filling and decorating

Fill each dough circle with the cheese cream, leaving a little space at the edges. Place a cherry tomato on top of each pie for a colorful and appetizing look.

7. Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish with the pies in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pies are golden and browned on top.

Useful tips:
- If you want an even crispier crust, you can spray a little water on the pies before placing them in the oven.
- Check the pies from time to time to ensure they do not burn.

Serving

Once the pies are ready, let them cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with a fresh green salad or Greek yogurt for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits

One serving of cheese and cumin pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while cumin brings antioxidants and digestive benefits.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, to change the taste and texture.

How can I store the pies?
Store the pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven to regain their crispness.

Can the pies be frozen?
Yes, the pies can be frozen. Make sure they are well covered in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.

Try this cheese and cumin pie recipe and let yourself be carried away by its flavors and aromas! It is a perfect choice for any occasion, and your family and friends will surely appreciate the effort put in. It can quickly become a favorite recipe in your home!

 Ingredients: Bread dough: ~500 g flour, 2 teaspoons salt, 10 g dry yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 250 ml milk (or water). For the filling: 300-400 g cottage cheese, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt and pepper, cherry tomatoes.

 Tags:  cheese pie breakfast