Feta cheese stuffed bread is a timeless recipe that combines the rich, salty tang of feta cheese with soft, pillowy bread. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, these stuffed breads are as versatile as they are delicious. The golden, buttery crust and creamy cheese filling make them irresistible. Whether served warm with a salad, alongside a bowl of soup, or enjoyed on their own with a cup of tea, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s explore this recipe in detail, from ingredients to serving tips.
Ingredients
Dough
- Warm Water: 3 glasses (approximately 720 mL)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Yeast: 1 teaspoon (active dry or instant)
- Flour: 6 cups (all-purpose, or substitute with whole-grain flour for added fiber)
Stuffing
- Feta Cheese: Approximately 1 cup, crumbled (adjust to taste)
To Lubricate
- Butter: 100 g, melted
- Oil: 1 glass (approximately 200 mL, vegetable or olive oil)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water with yeast and sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready for the dough.
- Mix the Ingredients: Add the salt to the yeast mixture, then gradually incorporate the flour. Begin mixing with a spoon, and when it becomes difficult to stir, transfer the dough to a floured surface.
- Knead the Dough: Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour, but avoid adding too much, as this can result in dense bread.
- Allow the Dough to Rise: Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- Crumble the Feta Cheese: Break the feta cheese into small pieces and set it aside in a bowl. If desired, mix in chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or mint for an added flavor boost.
Step 3: Form the Bread
- Divide the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air and divide it into equal portions, depending on the desired size of the bread. For smaller snacks, aim for 10-12 pieces; for larger breads, 6-8 pieces will suffice.
- Flatten and Stuff: Take each portion of dough and flatten it into a small disc. Place a spoonful of crumbled feta cheese in the center of the disc.
- Seal the Bread: Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese and pinch them together to seal. Shape the filled dough into a ball, oval, or any desired shape. Ensure there are no gaps or openings to prevent the cheese from leaking during baking.
Step 4: Lubricate
- Prepare the Butter-Oil Mixture: Melt the butter and mix it with the oil in a small bowl.
- Brush the Bread: Use a pastry brush to coat each piece of stuffed dough generously with the butter-oil mixture. This step ensures a golden, crisp exterior while keeping the bread moist inside.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and allow it to preheat for 10-15 minutes.
- Arrange the Bread: Place the stuffed bread pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring enough space between each piece for them to expand.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through. Check the bottoms to ensure they are evenly browned.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent the filling from being too hot.
- Enjoy Warm: These breads are best enjoyed warm when the filling is soft and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Salad: Pair the bread with a fresh green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light meal.
- With Soup: Serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup, lentil soup, or creamy mushroom soup for a hearty lunch or dinner.
- As a Snack: Enjoy with a cup of tea, coffee, or ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink) for a savory snack.
- With a Dip: Serve with tzatziki, hummus, or baba ghanoush for added flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Water Temperature: Ensure the water used for activating the yeast is warm (not hot) to avoid killing the yeast. The ideal temperature is between 105-115°F (40-46°C).
- Kneading: Knead the dough thoroughly to develop the gluten, which creates a soft and airy texture.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, goat cheese, or ricotta for a unique twist.
- Herbs and Spices: Add dried oregano, thyme, or crushed red pepper flakes to the dough or cheese for enhanced flavor.
- Butter-Oil Coating: Don’t skip the butter-oil mixture, as it keeps the bread soft while adding a rich, buttery flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegan butter.
- Whole-Grain Version: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole-grain flour for added fiber and nutrients.
- Stuffing Ideas: Try using sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes for a different filling.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After kneading, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise before using.
2. Can I freeze the stuffed bread?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, wrap each piece in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
3. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
You can use ricotta, goat cheese, or a mix of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for a milder flavor.
4. How do I prevent the bread from being too dry?
Avoid overbaking and ensure the dough is well-lubricated with the butter-oil mixture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap each piece individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Feta cheese stuffed bread is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines soft, airy bread with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or centerpiece of a meal, these stuffed breads are guaranteed to delight. Experiment with flavors, fillings, and serving styles to make them your own!