Hmong-inspired Stuffed Bread - Houska

Ingredients

In this Hmong-inspired adaptation of Houska, we incorporate Hmong spices and ingredients to infuse the bread with the vibrant flavors of Hmong cuisine. The traditional Czech bread is transformed into a fusion dish by using a filling made with ground pork, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and a blend of Hmong spices, resulting in a unique and delicious combination of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Houska, so you can check it out.

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1 pound (450g) ground pork 1 pound (450g) ground pork
• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15g) ginger, grated 1 tablespoon (15g) ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon (5g) Hmong spice blend (a mixture of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder) 1 teaspoon (5g) Hmong spice blend (a mixture of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 8g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. 3.
   Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, and one beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 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.
   Meanwhile, in a skillet, cook the ground pork over medium heat until browned. Add the lemongrass, garlic, ginger, Hmong spice blend, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and let it cool.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
8. 8.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions.
9. 9.
   Roll out each portion into a rectangle shape.
10. 10.
    Spread the cooled pork filling evenly over each rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
11. 11.
    Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long side, to form a log shape.
12. 12.
    Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
13. 13.
    Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of the bread.
14. 14.
    Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
15. 15.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
16. 16.
    Serve warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Remove the tough outer layers before finely chopping the tender inner stalks.
• Hmong spice blend — If you can't find a pre-made blend, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pork filling.
• Serve the Stuffed Bread with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground pork with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
• Experiment with different fillings such as chicken, beef, or vegetables to create your own unique variations.
• Leftover Stuffed Bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Hmong-inspired Stuffed Bread warm as a main dish or slice it into smaller portions for a delightful appetizer or snack. Pair it with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping and enjoy the fusion of flavors.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top of the Stuffed Bread before baking. Once sliced, arrange the pieces on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color.