Savory Muffins LEFTOVERS

Savory Muffins with Telemea Cheese and Salami: A Delicious Leftover Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Welcome to the savory world of muffins! This recipe is perfect for transforming leftovers from your fridge into star guests at your table. Savory muffins with telemea cheese and salami are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. Moreover, they are ideal as an appetizer or snack, suitable for any occasion!

A little story about muffins:
Over time, muffins have evolved from simple pastries to versatile delights that can be enjoyed both sweet and savory. Their origins are diverse, but the idea of combining simple ingredients into an easily served form has remained constant. These savory muffins are an excellent way to use up leftover ingredients, bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 fresh eggs
- 150 ml kefir (ideally slightly acidic)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 6 heaping tablespoons of flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/3 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1 teaspoon of oregano or rosemary (or both for a more complex flavor)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- About 100 g grated telemea cheese
- 1 small onion, grated
- 100 g sliced salami (or alternatives like ham, smoked tenderloin, or bologna)
- Olive slices (optional, for extra flavor)

How to prepare the savory muffins:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients on your work surface. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as this helps achieve a fluffier texture. If you don’t have kefir, you can use yogurt or fermented milk, but kefir will add a unique note of acidity that enhances the flavor.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a mixer or a fork until frothy. Add the kefir and olive oil (or melted butter) and continue mixing until well combined.

3. Adding the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, oregano, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

4. Combining the mixtures: Fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet one, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Do not overmix; it’s fine to have a few lumps as this will help maintain the muffins' fluffy texture.

5. Adding the flavorful ingredients: Now is the time to add the grated onion, telemea cheese, and strips of salami. Gently mix, being careful not to break the ingredients.

6. Preparing the muffin tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Lightly greased with oil, the muffin molds will help the final product release easily. A clever idea is to place the muffin tray on another tray with 2 fingers of hot water added; this trick will help maintain moisture in the oven, making the muffins fluffier.

7. Filling the molds: Using a spoon, evenly divide the mixture among the muffin molds, filling them about 2/3 full. This will allow them to rise beautifully during baking.

8. Baking the muffins: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until the muffins are golden and pass the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, they are ready!

9. Cooling and serving: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes in the tray. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These delicious savory muffins are best served warm, but they are just as tasty at room temperature.

Helpful tips:
- You can vary the recipe by adding green or black olives for extra flavor.
- Substitute telemea with feta cheese or goat cheese for a different taste.
- If you like spices, you can add chili or hot pepper for a kick.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Telemea can be replaced with any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or cheddar.

2. How can I store the muffins?
The muffins can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them.

3. What drinks pair well with these muffins?
A dry white wine or a lemonade cocktail with basil would be excellent combinations. Also, a refreshing green tea would perfectly complement the savory taste of the muffins.

Nutritional benefits:
These savory muffins are a good source of protein due to the eggs and cheese. The kefir adds beneficial probiotics for digestion, and vegetables like onion contribute essential vitamins. It’s an excellent choice for a nutritious and satisfying snack.

Enjoy this simple savory muffin recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring smiles to your face! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delicious snack, these muffins are an inspired choice to bring flavor and creativity to your kitchen!

 Ingredients: 3 eggs, 150 ml kefir - I used the lightly carbonated one from Milli, 4 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter, 6 heaping tablespoons flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/3 teaspoon sea salt, 1 teaspoon oregano or rosemary, freshly ground pepper to taste, about 100 g grated telemea cheese, 1 small grated onion, 100 g sliced Sălău de Sibiu (or smoked ham/tenderloin/sausage), olive slices - if you have them.

 Tags:  muffins kefir flour telemea appetizers