Banerov Hatz (Cheese-Onion Bread)
Banerov Hatz (Cheese-Onion Bread) Recipe from Armenia
Introduction
Banerov Hatz, or Cheese-Onion Bread, is a delightful and savory bread that combines the rich flavors of cheese and the sweet, aromatic essence of onions. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that is both comforting and delicious. Perfect for gatherings, as a side dish, or even as a meal on its own, Banerov Hatz is versatile and sure to please any palate.
History
The origins of Banerov Hatz can be traced back to Eastern European cuisine, where bread plays a central role in daily meals. Over time, variations of cheese and onion breads have been adopted and adapted by different cultures, each adding their unique twist to the recipe. This particular version, with its blend of cottage cheese, blue cheese, and Parmesan, along with a rich onion topping, is a modern take on the traditional dish, designed to cater to contemporary tastes while preserving the essence of its rich heritage.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
Cheese-Onion Topping Ingredients
- 2 lb (907 g) cottage cheese
- 4 to 5 lb (2.27 kg) finely chopped onions (Frozen, chopped onions that are defrosted can be used, but that’s cheating!)
- 4 oz (113 g) blue cheese, crumbled
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese
- 0.5 tsp cumin
- 0.5 tsp allspice
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 3 tbsp dried oregano
- 3 tbsp red pepper paste (Note: red pepper paste can be purchased in some Middle Eastern stores. If it is unavailable, you can use tomato paste, but something will be lost in the substitution.)
- 1 cup olive oil
How to prepare
- Directions for dough preparation:
- 1. Dissolve yeast in 0.25 cup of lukewarm water.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine flour, oil, salt, dissolved yeast, and enough water to make a smooth dough. (The amount of water you use isn't exact. There may be some trial and error involved here.)
- 3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes and place it in a large bowl.
- 4. Lightly oil the top of the dough, cover, and let it rise for 30 minutes to an hour.
- 5. Divide the dough into 7 balls, keeping them covered until ready to use. (Short on time? Buy prepared pizza dough from your local grocery store!)
Topping Directions:
- 1. Combine cottage cheese and some of the red pepper paste to achieve a reddish color.
- 2. In a separate bowl, add onions, blue cheese, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, mixing well.
- 3. Add the cottage cheese and stir well.
Assembling Directions:
- 1. Lightly grease a large baking sheet.
- 2. Roll out one ball of dough into a rectangular shape large enough to fit into the baking sheet.
- 3. Spread the cheese filling all over the dough.
- 4. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) until the dough is golden brown on the bottom and around the edges (approximately 20 minutes).
- 5. Repeat this procedure until all 7 loaves are done.
- 6. Cool each loaf completely.
- 7. To serve, cut into large squares (roughly 3"x3").
- 8. To store, completely cool and cut each loaf into squares. Wrap and freeze. When ready to serve, defrost in the refrigerator, then heat in an oven at 350°F (177°C) until warm.
Variations
- For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, or incorporating vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the topping.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure the best results when making Banerov Hatz, consider the following tips:
- When kneading the dough, aim for a smooth and elastic texture. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure it doubles in size for the perfect texture.
- For a more intense flavor, you can sauté the onions before adding them to the cheese mixture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to find the combination that best suits your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Banerov Hatz can be served as a standalone dish or paired with a light salad for a complete meal. It also makes an excellent side dish for soups and stews.
Cooking Techniques
The key to a perfect Banerov Hatz lies in the dough preparation and baking technique. Ensure the dough is well-kneaded and allowed to rise sufficiently before baking to achieve the ideal texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. Vegan cheese can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Make Ahead Tips
The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. The cheese-onion topping can also be made in advance and kept chilled until ready to use.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Banerov Hatz on a rustic wooden board for a charming, homely presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Banerov Hatz pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Banerov Hatz in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warm throughout.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A single serving of Banerov Hatz contains approximately 400-500 calories, making it a hearty choice that can serve as a substantial part of a meal.
Carbohydrates
A serving of Banerov Hatz is rich in carbohydrates, primarily from the flour used in the dough. Each serving contains approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates, making it a substantial source of energy.
Fats
The cheese and olive oil contribute to the fat content in Banerov Hatz. Each serving contains about 20-30 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. The use of healthier fats like olive oil helps balance the nutritional profile of this dish.
Proteins
Thanks to the cheese, Banerov Hatz is a good source of protein, providing about 15-20 grams per serving. The protein content can vary depending on the types of cheese used.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is also a source of various vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium from the cheese, and a range of B vitamins from both the dough and the toppings. Onions add a boost of vitamin C and dietary fiber.
Alergens
Common allergens in Banerov Hatz include gluten (from the flour) and dairy (from the cheese). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution.
Summary
Overall, Banerov Hatz is a nutritionally rich dish, offering a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is, however, calorie-dense and contains common allergens.
Summary
Banerov Hatz is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of cheese and onion in a delicious bread. With its rich history and versatile nature, it's a recipe that can be adapted to suit any taste or occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this cheese-onion bread is sure to become a favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Banerov Hatz, a delightful Cheese-Onion Bread that has become a family favorite over the years. The origins of this recipe are a bit mysterious, as I learned it from an old friend who had picked it up during her travels in Eastern Europe.
It was many years ago when my dear friend, Sofia, came to visit me with a basket full of ingredients and a twinkle in her eye. She told me she had learned this recipe while staying with a family in Romania and couldn't wait to share it with me. As we sat in my kitchen, she walked me through the steps of making the bread, her hands deftly mixing the dough and shaping it into a beautiful loaf.
The aroma that filled my kitchen as the bread baked was intoxicating, a tantalizing mix of cheese and onions that made my mouth water. When the bread emerged from the oven, golden brown and steaming hot, we couldn't resist tearing off a piece and savoring the warm, cheesy goodness.
From that moment on, Banerov Hatz became a staple in my household. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any time I wanted to treat myself to a delicious snack. It never failed to impress, and I soon found myself passing the recipe on to friends and neighbors who were equally enchanted by its flavors.
Over the years, I have made some modifications to the original recipe, adding a dash of herbs or a sprinkle of spices to suit my own tastes. But the heart of the recipe remains the same, a simple yet delicious combination of cheese, onions, and bread that never fails to delight.
I have shared the recipe with my grandchildren, who now make Banerov Hatz with their own twist, each adding their own unique touch to the dish. It warms my heart to see them carrying on the tradition, creating memories of their own in the kitchen just as I did with Sofia all those years ago.
As I reflect on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am grateful for the friendships and experiences that have enriched my life. Food has a way of bringing people together, of creating bonds that transcend time and distance. And Banerov Hatz, with its savory aroma and comforting flavors, is a testament to the power of sharing a meal with loved ones.
So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a recipe that will bring joy to those around you, consider trying your hand at Banerov Hatz. Who knows, it may just become a cherished tradition in your own family, passed down from one generation to the next with love and laughter.