Blagdanska Pogača Luciščak

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp olive oil
• 200g (7 oz) cooked ham, diced 200g (7 oz) cooked ham, diced
• 200g (7 oz) cheese, grated (such as Gouda or Cheddar) 200g (7 oz) cheese, grated (such as Gouda or Cheddar)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g (6g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 38g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the warm milk, eggs, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
2. 2.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. 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.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. 4.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out one portion into a rectangle shape, about 1cm (½ inch) thick, and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
5. 5.
   In a bowl, mix together the diced ham, grated cheese, parsley, and oregano. Spread the mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. 6.
   Roll out the second portion of dough into a rectangle shape, similar in size to the first one. Place it on top of the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
7. 7.
   Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts on the top layer of dough, creating a lattice pattern. Brush the surface with the beaten egg yolk.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ham — Use cooked ham that is not too salty to balance the flavors of the bread. If desired, you can substitute it with cooked turkey or chicken.
• Cheese — Opt for a cheese that melts well, such as Gouda or Cheddar. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs to the dough.
• If you prefer a spicier version, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the filling before rolling the dough.
• Serve the Blagdanska Pogača Luciščak warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed onions.

Serving advice

Blagdanska Pogača Luciščak is best enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a festive meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish to complement the main course. It can also be sliced and served as a snack during gatherings or parties.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal of the Blagdanska Pogača Luciščak, place it on a decorative serving platter or wooden board. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a pop of color. Cut the bread into slices and arrange them in an attractive pattern to showcase the beautiful lattice design.