Baguettes with ham and cheese
Ham and cheese baguettes – a quick and tasty delicacy, perfect for school or office lunches
Imagine a sunny morning, when the fresh aroma of baked bread fills the house, and the kids are getting ready for school. Ham and cheese baguettes are the ideal solution for a nourishing breakfast or for lunch at the office. These baguettes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, requiring simple ingredients and little preparation time. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step so that you achieve the fluffiest and most flavorful baguettes.
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6 baguettes
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500 g of flour
- 3 tablespoons of powdered milk
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 70 ml of olive oil (recommended for doughs due to its intense flavors)
- 240 ml of warm water
- 15 g of fresh yeast
For the filling:
- 180-200 g of ham, finely chopped
- 150 g of cheese, grated
- 1 egg for brushing
A brief history
The origins of baguettes can be traced back to the baking traditions of many cultures. These long and thin breads became popular due to their crispy texture and soft crumb. The addition of ham and cheese filling transforms these baguettes into a versatile dish, appreciated by both children and adults.
Step by step - Preparing the baguettes
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the yeast is fresh, as this will influence the dough’s rising power. Olive oil adds flavor, and powdered milk contributes to a fluffier texture.
2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, powdered milk, salt, and sugar. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure even distribution.
3. Activating the yeast: In a separate container, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add the olive oil and mix. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until a foam forms – this is a sign that the yeast is active.
4. Kneading the dough: Pour the yeast mixture over the dry ingredients. Using your hands, start kneading the dough. Kneading is essential for developing the gluten, which will give the baguettes the desired texture. Continue kneading for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. If you have a bread machine, you can use the rising program, and the dough will rise beautifully.
6. Shaping the baguettes: Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured work surface. Divide the dough into 6 equal parts. Take each piece and roll it out into a rectangular sheet, about 1 cm thick.
7. Adding the filling: Brush each sheet with beaten egg, then evenly distribute the ham and grated cheese over the entire surface. This step is essential to ensure a rich flavor and delicious filling.
8. Rolling the baguettes: Fold the ends of the sheets inward, then roll them tightly to form the baguettes. Place them in a greased tray, leaving enough space between them to rise.
9. Brushing and baking: Brush the baguettes with the remaining beaten egg and let them rise for another 10 minutes. Preheat the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. Bake the baguettes for 20 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
10. Cooling and serving: Once the baguettes are ready, let them cool slightly before slicing. They are delicious warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Useful tips
- Filling variations: Experiment with other fillings, such as feta cheese and olives or sautéed vegetables. You can add spices like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Serving: These baguettes are excellent served alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt dip for a more substantial meal.
- Freezing: If you want to prepare the baguettes in advance, you can freeze them before baking. Simply place them on a tray and freeze. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a sealed bag. When you want to bake them, let them thaw and follow the baking instructions.
Nutritional benefits
These baguettes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, while the ham and cheese filling adds protein and calcium. Olive oil contributes healthy fats, essential for a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier dish.
- How can I make the baguettes less greasy? You can reduce the amount of oil or use a lower-fat oil.
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast, but the amount needs to be adjusted (about 5 g of dry yeast for 15 g of fresh yeast).
These ham and cheese baguettes are not only a simple and quick recipe but also an opportunity to involve your family in cooking. Share the joyful moments of preparing this dish, and the result will be a tasty meal full of love. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 500 g flour 3 tablespoons powdered milk 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 70 ml olive oil (great for doughs) 240 ml lukewarm water 15 g fresh yeast Filling: 180-200 g finely chopped ham 150 g grated cheese 1 egg for brushing
