Best Greek Cheese Bread

Freshly baked Greek cheese bread slices on a wooden board with feta and oregano

Homemade Greek Cheese Bread

Greek cheese bread, known as tiropsomo (τυρóπιτα) in Greece, is a delectable pastry that combines layers of flaky phyllo dough with a savory cheese filling. This traditional dish has been a staple in Greek cuisine for centuries, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

To prepare this authentic Greek cheese bread, you'll need:

Flour: 550 grams of all-purpose flour, serving as the base for the dough.
Yeast: 1 package of dried yeast to help the dough rise.
Olive Oil: 5 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil for moisture and flavor.
Water: 1 cup of lukewarm water to activate the yeast and bind the dough.
Sugar: 1 tablespoon of sugar to feed the yeast.
Salt: 1 teaspoon of salt to enhance the overall flavor.
Feta Cheese: 250 grams of crumbled feta cheese for a tangy filling.
Kasseri Cheese: 120 grams of grated Kasseri cheese, a semi-hard sheep's milk cheese that melts beautifully.
Oregano: A sprinkle of dried oregano for aromatic seasoning.

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and dried yeast. Gradually add the lukewarm water and olive oil, mixing continuously until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough back into the bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: While the dough is rising, brush a baking sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Incorporate the Cheese: Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and knead in 2/3 of the crumbled feta and grated Kasseri cheese. This ensures that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the bread.
Shape the Bread: Place the cheese-infused dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten it out evenly using your hands or a rolling pin to achieve your desired thickness.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheese and a generous pinch of dried oregano over the top of the flattened dough.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Once heated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and emits a fragrant aroma.
Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. This cheese bread is best enjoyed warm, allowing the melted cheeses to be fully appreciated.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Phyllo Pastry Alternative: For a more traditional tiropita, consider using phyllo pastry instead of bread dough. Layer sheets of phyllo, brushing each with melted butter or olive oil, and spread the cheese mixture between layers. This method results in a flaky, crispy texture.
Spanakotiropita: Add fresh spinach to the cheese mixture to create spanakotiropita, a spinach and cheese pie that's also a beloved Greek dish. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent sogginess.
Herb Enhancements: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the filling for added freshness and flavor complexity.
Cheese Variations: While feta and Kasseri are traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

Expert Tips

Proper Dough Rising: Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free environment. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the bowl in an oven (turned off) with the light on to create a warm space.
Cheese Quality: Using high-quality, authentic Greek cheeses like feta and Kasseri will significantly enhance the flavor of your bread.
Serving: This bread pairs wonderfully with a fresh Greek salad, olives, and a glass of white wine. It's also perfect as an appetizer or a snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I prepare the dough in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. After kneading, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise before proceeding with the recipe.

Q: Is it possible to freeze the baked bread?

A: Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it at room temperature and warm it in the oven to regain its crispness.

Q: What can I use if I can't find Kasseri cheese?

A: If Kasseri cheese is unavailable, you can substitute it with other semi-hard cheeses like provolone or gouda. However, using traditional Greek cheeses will provide the most authentic flavor.

Nutritional Information

Please note that nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Protein: 8 grams
Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Fat: 10 grams
Fiber: 2 grams

Conclusion

Crafting your own Greek cheese bread at home is a rewarding culinary experience that brings the rich flavors of Greece to your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and those of your guests. Enjoy this savory pastry warm, and savor the harmonious blend of cheeses and aromatic herbs.

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