Fusion Ham in a Ring

Ingredients

In this fusion adaptation, we have incorporated elements from various cuisines to enhance the flavors and create a unique twist on the traditional Croatian dish. The addition of different herbs and spices, as well as the use of a specific type of cheese, gives this dish a fusion touch. The presentation is also modified, with the bread being shaped into a ring to add an element of elegance and visual appeal. We alse have the original recipe for Šunka u kruhu, 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
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp olive oil
• 200g (7 oz) cooked ham, thinly sliced 200g (7 oz) cooked ham, thinly sliced
• 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm milk and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large circle.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the parsley, oregano, and garlic powder evenly over the dough.
8. 8.
   Arrange the ham slices and shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the herbs and spices.
9. 9.
   Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one side.
10. 10.
    Shape the log into a ring and pinch the ends together to seal.
11. 11.
    Transfer the ring to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12. 12.
    Brush the surface of the ring with the beaten egg wash.
13. 13.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. 14.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ham — Use thinly sliced cooked ham for the best texture and flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for shredded mozzarella cheese as it melts easily and creates a gooey texture.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the dish.
• Add a touch of sweetness by spreading a thin layer of honey mustard on the dough before adding the ham and cheese.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with roasted vegetables or grilled tofu.
• Serve the Fusion Ham in a Ring with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Fusion Ham in a Ring warm, either as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad or as an appetizer for a gathering. It can be sliced into individual portions for easy serving.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the Fusion Ham in a Ring with fresh parsley leaves and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. The golden-brown crust and melted cheese will make it an eye-catching centerpiece.