Puppy with cheese and ham
Cheesy Ham Puppies: A Fun and Delicious Recipe for Kids and Adults
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 puppies
Here’s a recipe that will bring a smile to your face! Cheesy ham puppies are not just an ordinary sandwich; they are a true culinary masterpiece, perfect for little ones and adults alike who crave a playful and tasty meal. From the simple ingredients to the fun preparation process, this recipe will turn any meal into a special occasion.
Ingredients needed:
- 1 egg
- 50 g grated cheese
- 50 g grated cow's cheese
- 1 packet of dry yeast
- 50 ml warm milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Flour, as needed (approximately 250-300 g)
- A few olives (for eyes and nose)
- A few slices of pressed ham
A bit of history:
Cheesy ham puppies were born out of the desire to transform an ordinary sandwich into a playful and attractive meal for children. This recipe combines the tradition of cooking with simple, natural ingredients, creating a delightful experience not just for kids but also for adults. It’s a great way to teach children to appreciate cooking and get involved in meal preparation.
Making the dough:
1. Prepare the ingredients: First, make sure you have all the ingredients ready and that the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
2. Dissolve the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with the warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy dough.
3. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the egg, grated cheese, grated cow's cheese, and salt. Mix all the ingredients well, then add the yeast mixture.
4. Add the flour: Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or your hands until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. You may need more or less flour, so add it in moderation.
5. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a clean work surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes. This step will help develop the gluten and make the dough less sticky.
6. Let it rise: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
Shaping the puppies:
1. Divide the dough: Once the dough has risen, transfer it back to the work surface and knead it a little. Divide it into balls of approximately 50 g.
2. Form the rolls: Each ball is rolled into a log shape, and the ends are cut slightly on the diagonal to form the ears. Make sure not to cut all the way through, as the ears need to be attached to the puppy's body.
3. Create the face: Use olives to create the puppy's eyes and nose. You can make a playful puppy by choosing olives of different sizes.
4. Arrange on the baking tray: Place the puppies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to rise.
5. Second rise: Cover them again with a towel and let them rise for another 15 minutes.
Baking:
1. Preheat the oven: While the puppies are rising, preheat the oven to 180°C (fan).
2. Bake: Bake the puppies for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Do the toothpick test to ensure they are fully baked.
Finishing and serving:
1. Cooling: After removing them from the oven, let them cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Adding the ham: Once cooled, you can gently slice open the mouth and add a slice of pressed ham for an even more cheerful look. The puppies will look like they are holding a "snack" in their mouths, which will delight the little ones.
3. Serving: You can serve the puppies with a fresh green salad or assorted vegetables for a balanced and colorful lunch.
Practical tips:
- You can use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, to give the puppies a distinct flavor.
- Instead of olives, you can use small pieces of bell pepper to create the eyes, adding a different color touch.
- If you have time, you can let the dough rise longer, even up to an hour, for a richer taste and texture.
Nutritional information:
These cheesy ham puppies are not only delicious but also a good source of protein thanks to the cheese and ham. Whole wheat flour can be used for added fiber. Each puppy has approximately 180-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I make the dough with whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but you may need to adjust the amount of water.
2. Can I freeze the puppies?
Yes, you can freeze the puppies before baking. You can bake them directly from the freezer, but you will need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
3. What other fillings can I use?
You can experiment with various fillings, such as sautéed vegetables, fish, or different types of meat, to create interesting variations.
This cheesy ham puppy recipe is not only a culinary treat but also an opportunity to have fun in the kitchen. So gather your family and friends, prepare these adorable puppies, and enjoy moments filled with smiles and deliciousness! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 egg, 50 g grated cheese, 50 g grated cow's cheese, 1 packet of yeast, 50 ml milk, 1 teaspoon salt, flour as needed, a few olives (for forming eyes and noses), a few slices of pressed ham.
