Malaysian Indian Cheese Stuffed Flatbread

Ingredients

In this Malaysian Indian version, the traditional Croatian Lička pogača is transformed by incorporating the vibrant spices and flavors of Malaysian Indian cuisine. The original recipe is adapted to include a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder, which infuse the flatbread with a distinct Malaysian Indian taste. Additionally, the filling is enhanced with a combination of Indian cheeses, such as paneer and cheddar, to create a rich and creamy center. We alse have the original recipe for Lička pogača sa sirom, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cumin powder 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp turmeric powder
• ½ tsp chili powder ½ tsp chili powder
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 200g (7 oz) paneer, grated 200g (7 oz) paneer, grated
• 100g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese, grated 100g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Ghee or butter, for brushing Ghee or butter, for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder.
2. 2.
   Gradually add warm water and knead until a soft and smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the grated paneer, cheddar cheese, green chilies, cilantro, and salt.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and roll each portion into a small circle.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each circle and fold the edges to seal the filling inside.
7. 7.
   Gently flatten the stuffed dough balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Brush the flattened dough with ghee or butter.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the flatbreads are golden brown.
10. 10.
    Serve hot and enjoy the flavorful Malaysian Indian Cheese Stuffed Flatbread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Paneer — Make sure the paneer is grated finely to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
• Cheddar cheese — Opt for a sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced flavor in the filling.
• Green chilies — Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.
• Cilantro — Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness to the filling, but you can substitute with parsley if desired.
• Ghee or butter — Brushing the flatbreads with ghee or butter before baking adds a rich and glossy finish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
• Serve the flatbreads with a side of mint chutney or yogurt dip for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a softer crust, cover the baked flatbreads with a clean kitchen towel immediately after removing them from the oven.
• These flatbreads can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course with a side salad.

Serving advice

Serve the Malaysian Indian Cheese Stuffed Flatbread hot, either as a standalone dish or accompanied by a side of mint chutney or yogurt dip. It pairs well with a refreshing glass of mango lassi.

Presentation advice

Arrange the flatbreads on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. For an elegant touch, drizzle a little melted ghee over the top just before serving.