Broccoli and cheese cream pie
Delicious Broccoli and Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 8
The history of stuffed pies is ancient, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. They have often been cooked to make the most of available ingredients, thus becoming a symbol of creativity in the kitchen. Our broccoli and cream cheese pie combines the flavor of vegetables with the creamy texture of cheese, resulting in a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 200 g flour
- 100 ml sparkling water
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil for a richer taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh yeast
For the filling:
- 300 g broccoli (preferably fresh or frozen)
- 400 g cream cheese (choose a variety with a higher fat content for a richer texture)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 3 eggs (preferably organic for better flavor)
- 3 green onions (only the white and green parts)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation
1. Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the dough and to achieve a fine texture.
2. In the center of the flour, create a well and add the fresh yeast, salt, oil, and sparkling water. Gently mix with a spoon, ensuring the yeast dissolves well. You will notice it starting to foam, releasing its aromas.
3. Continue mixing the flour with the liquids until fully incorporated. Finally, turn the dough onto a clean surface or cutting board and knead it by hand. This process will activate the gluten in the flour, giving the dough a pleasant elasticity.
4. Once the dough is smooth and elastic, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise for at least 30 minutes. It is recommended to keep it in a warm place, away from drafts.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Bring water to a boil in a pot, adding a pinch of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the broccoli cut into small florets. Boil for 3 minutes, then transfer to cold water to stop the cooking process, preserving the vibrant color and crunchy texture.
6. After the broccoli has cooled, drain it well and chop finely, using a food processor for a uniform texture.
7. In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped green onions in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil until they become translucent. Then, add the chopped broccoli and mix well.
8. In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese with the eggs, adding them one at a time and mixing well after each addition. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add the broccoli and onion mixture to this composition, mixing gently to avoid breaking the vegetables.
9. Prepare a baking tray. I prefer not to line it, as I will roll out the dough directly on parchment paper. Place the paper on the work surface and sprinkle a little flour to prevent sticking. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin, ensuring it is large enough to cover the tray.
10. Carefully transfer the dough to the tray, trimming any excess dough from the edges. If the dough pulls away from the sides, gently press it with your fingers to create a thicker edge.
11. Prick the dough in several places with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
12. Pour the filling mixture over the dough and spread it evenly.
13. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the tray in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the pie has a golden and appetizing crust.
14. Once baked, let the pie cool slightly before cutting it. You can choose to slice it into squares or triangles, depending on your preference.
15. For an extra touch of flavor, serve the pie with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Practical Tips
- If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour instead of white flour. This will add a slightly nutty flavor to the pie.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, according to your preferences.
- Add spices such as nutmeg or garlic to enhance the flavor of the filling.
- This pie is perfect served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics or festive meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 1/4 of the amount of fresh yeast mentioned in the recipe.
2. How can I store leftover pie?
Keep the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
3. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen. Make sure to cool it completely, then wrap it well before placing it in the freezer. You can bake it directly from the freezer, but it will require a few extra minutes of baking.
Ideal Pairings
This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. You can accompany the pie with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade to balance the rich flavors of the cheese.
Enjoy this broccoli and cream cheese pie, a perfect choice for special moments or simply to indulge in a delicious meal! Whether you prepare it for yourself, family, or friends, it is sure to become a favorite for everyone. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 200 g flour, 100 ml sparkling water, 2 tablespoons oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon fresh yeast, 300 g broccoli, 400 g cream cheese, 1 tablespoon butter, 1 tablespoon oil, 3 eggs, 3 green onions - only the green part, black pepper
