Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Bread

Fill this bread with ricotta and spinach, and it will taste divine! Here’s the recipe you’ll love:

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
  • 520g (4 cups) of flour
  • 1 tsp of salt
  • 220ml (4/5 cup) of lukewarm water
  • 60g (3/8 cup) of sugar
  • 10g of dry yeast
  • 70ml (1/5 cup) of olive oil
• For the Filling:
  • 400g of ricotta cheese
  • 120g of spinach, cooked and chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For Assembly:
  • Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water)

Method

Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Filling

6. Cook the Spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the spinach until it is wilted. Remove from heat, drain any excess liquid, and chop finely.
7. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Assembling the Bread

8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
9. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick.
10. Add the Filling: Spread the ricotta and spinach mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
11. Roll the Dough: Starting from one of the long edges, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams and ends to seal.
12. Shape and Place: Place the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape it into a ring or leave it as a log, depending on your preference.
13. Second Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
14. Egg Wash: Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash to give it a beautiful golden color when baked.

Baking

15. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Serving

16. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations

• Cheese Addition: Add some grated Parmesan or mozzarella to the filling for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Herbs: Mix in some fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill into the ricotta mixture for added freshness.
• Garlic: Add some minced garlic to the spinach when sautéing for a subtle garlic flavor.

Nutritional Information

This ricotta and spinach stuffed bread offers a delightful combination of carbs, protein, and fats. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.

Ricotta and spinach stuffed bread is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach wrapped in a soft and fluffy bread. Perfect for any meal or as a savory snack.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Ricotta and Spinach Bread

1. Proper Dough Preparation: Ensure the dough is kneaded well and given enough time to rise for a fluffy texture.
2. Balanced Filling: Adjust the seasoning in the ricotta and spinach mixture to ensure a flavorful filling.
3. Even Rolling: Roll the dough tightly and evenly to prevent the filling from leaking out.

Share the Delight

If you’ve enjoyed making and eating this ricotta and spinach stuffed bread, share the recipe with your friends and family. It’s a fun and easy recipe that adds a delicious touch to any gathering.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for ricotta and spinach stuffed bread highlights how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful bread, and savor every flavorful bite. Happy cooking and see you in the next recipe!

This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a gourmet treat with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of ricotta and spinach stuffed bread, a delightful addition to any meal. Happy cooking!