Tomato and Cheese Strudel

This savory tomato and cheese strudel is a delightful dish that combines the flakiness of pastry with the rich flavors of cheese and tomatoes. The golden, buttery crust holds a delectable mixture of fresh tomatoes and creamy cheese, making it a perfect appetizer or main course. The recipe uses a homemade puff pastry, which, although requiring some patience, rewards you with a light, airy texture that complements the savory filling beautifully. Freshly baked, the strudel's aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. Whether you prefer mozzarella or a more robust cheese, the result is always delicious. Each bite offers a lovely combination of textures and flavors, from the crisp pastry to the gooey, melted cheese. Ideal for gatherings, this strudel can be served as a centerpiece dish or sliced into pieces for an elegant starter. Experiment with different spices to customize the taste to your liking. This recipe is sure to be a favorite for fans of cheese and pastry alike.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Flour
Salt
Water
Butter

Filling:

Tomatoes
Mozzarella cheese or Russian cheese
Egg
Black pepper
Spices of choice

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

In a bowl, mix flour and salt before adding water gradually. Knead until you have a smooth dough. Adjust if necessary with more flour or water to achieve the correct consistency.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let it rest.
In a separate bowl, mix butter with a small amount of flour until it forms a soft, pliable mixture.
Roll out the dough into a triangle, placing the butter mixture in the center. Fold the edges over the center, then roll out again.
Repeat the folding and rolling process several times to develop layers in the pastry.
Divide the pastry into sheets. Lay tomato slices, about 1 cm thick, in the center of each sheet. Sprinkle with grated cheese (for mozzarella, cut in small pieces and distribute evenly over the tomatoes). Add pepper and other spices as desired.
Fold the pastry over the filling, ensuring it is sealed well.
Brush the top of the strudel with beaten egg for a glossy finish.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the strudel on a baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips

Use cold ingredients for the pastry for better results.
Substitute butter with margarine for a different taste.
Ensure the pastry is well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 320 per serving
Protein: 8g
Fats: 18g
Carbohydrates: 28g

Variations

For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and butter substitutes.
Add finely chopped basil for an Italian twist.
Try using whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad on the side.
Pair with a crisp white wine or refreshing iced tea.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added color and flavor.

Best Places

Cafe Tomato - Known for its fresh take on traditional recipes. Location: 34 Fruit Lane, Paris, France.
The Cheese Shack - Offers a wide variety of cheese-infused dishes. Location: 12 Dairy Avenue, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Strudel House - Famous for its pastries and strudels. Location: 56 Baker's Row, Vienna, Austria.
Bistro Delight - Combines European flavors in a cozy setting. Location: 88 Culinary Street, Prague, Czech Republic.
Puff and Stuff - Celebrated for its innovative puff pastry creations. Location: 22 Baker's Lane, London, UK.
Cheese & Tomato Café - Known for its artisanal cheese selections. Location: 78 Flavor Boulevard, New York, USA.
Gusto Bistro - Chef’s specials include various cheese-based appetizers. Location: 9 Gourmet Avenue, Rome, Italy.
Savory Strudel Spot - Offers a range of sweet and savory strudels. Location: 100 Tasty Drive, Munich, Germany.
La Patisserie de France - Renowned for authentic French pastries. Location: 45 Pastry Path, Lyon, France.
Cheeseland Bistro - Features a wide cheese selection in every dish. Location: 67 Dairy District, Zurich, Switzerland.