Saraiki Cheese Bread

Ingredients

While the original Pan de queso from Colombian cuisine is made with a specific type of cheese called queso fresco, Saraiki Cheese Bread incorporates local cheeses commonly found in Saraiki cuisine. The spices and seasonings used in Saraiki cuisine are also added to enhance the flavor profile of the bread, giving it a distinct Saraiki twist. We alse have the original recipe for Pan de queso, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) yogurt 1/2 cup (120ml) yogurt
• 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) grated mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup (30g) grated mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 29g, 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking sheet.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cumin powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. 3.
   Add the vegetable oil and yogurt to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Fold in the grated cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped cilantro. Knead the dough gently until the cheese is evenly distributed.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small balls and place them on the greased baking sheet.
6. 6.
   Brush the tops of the dough balls with beaten egg to give them a golden color.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheddar cheese — Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess moisture in the bread.
• Cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley or omit it altogether.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add finely chopped green chilies to the dough.
• Serve the Saraiki Cheese Bread warm for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• This bread pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Saraiki Cheese Bread as an appetizer or alongside a main course. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of chutney or yogurt dip.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Saraiki Cheese Bread on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. The golden-brown crust and cheesy interior will make for an inviting presentation.