East Indian Spiced Cheese Bread

Ingredients

In this East Indian adaptation of Cuñape, the traditional Bolivian cheese bread, we incorporate East Indian spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala to infuse the bread with a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, we use grated paneer cheese instead of the original cheese to enhance the savory and creamy texture of the bread. We alse have the original recipe for Cuñape, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) tapioca flour 2 cups (240g) tapioca flour
• 1 cup (120g) grated paneer cheese 1 cup (120g) grated paneer cheese
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons cumin powder 2 teaspoons cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs 2 eggs

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the tapioca flour, grated paneer cheese, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. 5.
   Using your hands, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and pliable.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into balls.
7. 7.
   Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Paneer cheese — Make sure to grate the paneer cheese finely to ensure it incorporates well into the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the dough.
• Serve the East Indian Spiced Cheese Bread warm with a side of chutney or yogurt for dipping.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a variation in flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the East Indian Spiced Cheese Bread as an appetizer or alongside a main course. It pairs well with curries, lentil dishes, or as a snack on its own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the East Indian Spiced Cheese Bread on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. The golden brown color of the bread will be visually appealing, and the aroma of the spices will entice your guests.