Herbed Cheese-Stuffed Bread: A Gourmet Delight
Introduction
Herbed cheese-stuffed bread is a flavorful and elegant addition to any meal. This recipe masterfully blends the soft, warm texture of homemade bread with the rich, savory essence of cheese and fresh herbs. Not only does this bread look stunning, but it also bursts with flavor, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, social gatherings, or even a special treat to elevate a casual meal.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Brushing:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
1. Preparing the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, or until frothy.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough starts to form, then transfer it to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Creating the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, basil, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Assembling the Bread:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large circle, approximately 1/2 inch thick.
Spread the cheese and herb filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Cut the dough into 8 triangular sections, like a pizza. Starting from the wide end, roll each segment into a crescent shape.
Arrange the crescents in a greased circular baking pan, with the points facing inward to create a beautiful spiral design.
4. Final Steps:
Cover the dough with a cloth and allow it to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix the beaten egg with milk and gently brush the top of the dough with the mixture.
Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it achieves a golden-brown hue.
Conclusion
This herbed cheese-stuffed bread offers a delightful combination of fragrant herbs and creamy cheeses, all wrapped in a golden, crispy crust. It’s versatile enough to suit various occasions and can easily be customized with different fillings to match your preferences. Serve it warm from the oven to fully appreciate its texture and flavors—whether as an appetizer, a side dish, or a stand-alone treat. Enjoy baking and let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen!
