Savory meat-stuffed bread rolls are an irresistible combination of seasoned meat and cheese wrapped in soft, fluffy dough. These rolls are ideal for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party treat, or an impressive appetizer. Filled with flavorful meat and cheese, these rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Below, we provide a detailed recipe along with FAQs, variations, and tips to help you perfect your own batch.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 120 ml warm water
- 240 ml warm milk
- 15 g (1 tbsp) sugar
- 8 g (2 tsp) yeast
- 40 g (3 tbsp) olive oil
- 540 g all-purpose flour
- 6 g (1 tsp) salt
For the Meat Filling:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp minced garlic or garlic paste
- 200 g (1 medium-sized) onion (chopped)
- 400 g minced meat (mutton, beef, or chicken)
- 1 tsp paprika powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp red pepper
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 3 tbsp fresh coriander (chopped)
- 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 400 g (2 cups) mozzarella cheese
- 260 g (1 cup) feta cheese or cottage cheese
- 2-3 tbsp fresh green coriander (chopped)
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes
- Sesame seeds or nigella seeds for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast:
In a bowl, combine 120 ml of warm water, 240 ml of warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 8 grams of yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until frothy. This will activate the yeast and ensure the dough rises properly. - Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 540 g of all-purpose flour and 6 g of salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with 40 g of olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms. - Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If needed, add a little more flour to prevent the dough from being too sticky, but be cautious not to add too much. - First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Onions:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 200 g of chopped onions. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. - Add Minced Meat:
Stir in the minced meat (mutton, beef, or chicken). Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking up the meat with a spatula. - Season the Meat:
Add 1 teaspoon each of paprika powder, cumin powder, oregano, red pepper, turmeric, and black pepper. Season with salt to taste, and stir well. Let the mixture cook for another 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of fresh coriander. Let the filling cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a bowl, combine 400 g of mozzarella cheese, 260 g of feta cheese, 2-3 tablespoons of fresh coriander, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and 1 teaspoon of Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes. Mix until everything is evenly combined. - Shape the Rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 10-12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle of about 5-6 inches in diameter. - Add the Fillings:
Place a spoonful of the meat mixture and a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges tightly to seal. - Egg Wash:
Arrange the filled rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg to give the rolls a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top for added texture.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). - Bake the Rolls:
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Customize the Filling:
Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs based on your preferences. You can add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even olives to the meat mixture to increase flavor and nutrition. - Check the Dough:
The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour during the kneading process, but avoid adding too much to prevent the dough from becoming tough. - Make Ahead:
Prepare the meat filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the rolls. You can also freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Bake from frozen without thawing, adjusting the baking time as needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can use any type of ground meat, such as beef, chicken, or lamb. You can also try using a vegetarian substitute like lentils or beans for a plant-based option.
How do I store leftover rolls?
Once baked, let the rolls cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them for longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, punch it down, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking the rolls.
Can I bake these rolls in a different shape?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can shape the dough into small buns or even a braided loaf. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if you change the shape.
Can I add more cheese to the filling?
Yes, feel free to add extra cheese if you’re a cheese lover! You can also mix different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or ricotta, for a more complex flavor.
How can I make the rolls spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, Aleppo pepper, or fresh chilies in the filling. You can also add hot sauce or chili paste to the meat mixture.
Conclusion
Savory meat-stuffed bread rolls are a delightful and satisfying dish perfect for any meal or occasion. The combination of seasoned meat, melted cheese, and soft, fluffy dough creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With easy-to-follow steps and a few simple ingredients, these rolls will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to customize the fillings and shapes to suit your taste. Whether you make them for a party or enjoy them as a snack, these savory rolls are sure to impress!