Bulgarian Cheese Loaves

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves Recipe - Authentic and Delicious

Region / culture: Bulgaria | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30-35 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves are a delicious and traditional dish that combines the rich flavors of Bulgarian white feta cheese with a soft and fluffy bread. These loaves are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for a hearty meal.

History

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves have been a staple in Bulgarian cuisine for centuries. The combination of feta cheese and bread has been a popular choice for many Bulgarians, as it is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Ingredients

1 kg (2.2 lb) of self raising flour
450 g (1 lb) of Bulgarian white cheese or feta, crumbled
480 ml (16 fl oz) of Plain yoghurt
3 eggs
butter

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly oil 2 or 3 baking trays.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yogurt, eggs, and crumbled cheese. Mix until a stiff dough forms. Knead lightly.
Divide the dough into 8 portions and shape each portion into a ball. Place the balls on the baking trays and slightly flatten them with the palm of your hand.
Using your finger, make a hole in the middle of each loaf and place a knob of butter inside.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the loaves are browned and sound hollow when tapped on the base.
Cool the loaves on a wire rack.

Variations

Add chopped herbs such as dill or parsley to the dough for added flavor.
Substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to crumble the feta cheese finely to ensure that it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

- Do not over-knead the dough, as this can result in tough loaves.

- Be sure to preheat the oven to the correct temperature to ensure that the loaves bake evenly and rise properly.

Serving Suggestions

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves can be served warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey. They can also be enjoyed with a side of fresh salad or soup.

Cooking Techniques

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves are baked in the oven until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the base.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have self-raising flour, you can use all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Bulgarian Cheese Loaves ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply shape the loaves and bake them when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Bulgarian Cheese Loaves on a wooden board with a selection of olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves pair well with a glass of Bulgarian red wine or a cup of strong black coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Bulgarian Cheese Loaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Bulgarian Cheese Loaves contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bulgarian Cheese Loaves contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Bulgarian Cheese Loaves contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Bulgarian Cheese Loaves contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.

Alergens

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves contain dairy (feta cheese, yogurt, eggs) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves are a balanced dish that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Bulgarian Cheese Loaves are a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of feta cheese and bread in a simple yet satisfying way. Enjoy these loaves for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for a hearty meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Bulgarian Cheese Loaves. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning to cook from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, and I loved spending time in the kitchen with her, watching her work her magic with ingredients and flavors.

One day, as we were going through her old recipe box, she pulled out a faded piece of paper with the words "Bulgarian Cheese Loaves" scrawled across the top. I had never heard of such a dish before, and I was intrigued by the combination of cheese and bread. My grandmother smiled at my curiosity and began to tell me the story of how she came to learn this recipe.

She explained that many years ago, when she was just a young bride, she had a friend who was Bulgarian. This friend had shared the recipe with her, and my grandmother had been making it ever since. The cheese loaves were a traditional Bulgarian dish, often served as an appetizer or snack with a glass of wine.

As my grandmother began to gather the ingredients and walk me through the steps of making the cheese loaves, I could see the love and care she put into each part of the process. She showed me how to mix the dough just right, how to shape the loaves, and how to bake them to golden perfection.

The smell of the cheese and bread baking in the oven was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When the loaves were finally done, my grandmother sliced into one and handed me a piece. The warm, gooey cheese melted in my mouth, and I knew I had discovered a new favorite dish.

Over the years, I have made the Bulgarian Cheese Loaves many times, each time thinking back to that first day with my grandmother. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this delicious dish to the next generation.

As I sit here now, with my own grandchildren gathered around me in the kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes and memories that have been passed down through the years. The Bulgarian Cheese Loaves will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the love and joy that cooking can bring to a family.

And so, as I continue to cook and bake with my grandchildren, I hope that they too will one day have their own special recipes and stories to pass on to future generations. For in the end, it is not just the food that nourishes us, but the traditions and memories that we create along the way.