Savory Italian Babà with Herbs and Cheese

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 100g (1 cup) grated Parmesan cheese 100g (1 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• 200g (2 cups) grated mozzarella cheese 200g (2 cups) grated mozzarella cheese

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, olive oil, salt, rosemary, and thyme.
3. 3.
   Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions.
8. 8.
   Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it slightly.
9. 9.
   Fill the center of each dough with a mixture of grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
10. 10.
    Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese, sealing it well.
11. 11.
    Place the filled dough balls in a greased baking dish and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
12. 12.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Parmesan cheese — Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a variation in flavor.
• Serve the savory Babà as an appetizer or alongside a fresh salad.
• If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, add some grated Gruyère or cheddar to the filling.
• Brush the baked Babà with melted butter and sprinkle with extra Parmesan for an extra indulgence.
• These savory Babà can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Serving advice

Serve the savory Italian Babà as an appetizer or as part of a brunch spread. They are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.

Presentation advice

Arrange the savory Babà on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. The golden brown crust and oozing cheese filling will make for an enticing presentation.