Newari-style Cheese Bocadillo

Ingredients

In this Newari adaptation of the Spanish Bocadillo de queso Manchego, we incorporate traditional Newari spices and use Newari bread instead of the original Spanish bread. The addition of these spices and the use of local ingredients give the dish a distinct Newari flavor profile, while still maintaining the essence of the original Spanish dish. We alse have the original recipe for Bocadillo de queso Manchego, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7oz) Manchego cheese, sliced 200g (7oz) Manchego cheese, sliced
• 4 slices of Newari bread 4 slices of Newari bread
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, mix together cumin powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, ginger paste, garlic paste, vegetable oil, and salt to form a spice paste.
2. 2.
   Spread the spice paste evenly on one side of each slice of Newari bread.
3. 3.
   Place the sliced Manchego cheese on two of the bread slices, covering the spice paste.
4. 4.
   Top the cheese with the remaining two bread slices, spice paste side down, to form sandwiches.
5. 5.
   Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil.
6. 6.
   Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and let the bocadillos cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Manchego cheese — Make sure to slice the cheese thinly for easier melting and even distribution within the bocadillo.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a few slices of pickled jalapenos or a drizzle of hot sauce to the bocadillo before grilling.
• If Newari bread is not available, you can substitute it with any soft, slightly sweet bread of your choice.

Serving advice

Serve the Newari-style Cheese Bocadillo warm as a snack or appetizer. It pairs well with a side of fresh salad or chutney.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can cut the bocadillos into smaller bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a pop of color.