Crispy Crackers Recipe - A Delightful, Traditional Snack

Ierauga Krekeri is a beloved traditional snack, known for its crispy texture and delightful flavor. This recipe has its roots in Eastern European cuisine, where it has been enjoyed for generations. The name "Ierauga" refers to the distinctive, aromatic leavening technique used to create these delightful crackers. Often served as an appetizer or alongside a cozy tea session, ierauga krekeri are cherished for their simplicity and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rye flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rye flour, and baking powder. Mix thoroughly.
2. Cream the Butter: In another bowl, cream the softened butter with the honey until light and fluffy.
3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the sour cream to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Add Spices: Fold in the caraway and cumin seeds evenly throughout the dough.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Ensure consistency for even baking.
9. Cut the Shapes: Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes, such as squares or circles.
10. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cut shapes onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each piece.
11. Bake the Krekeri: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp.
12. Cool the Krekeri: Once baked, transfer the krekeri to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Store Properly: Keep any leftover crackers in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
14. Season to Taste: If desired, sprinkle a little more salt or garnish with additional caraway seeds before serving.
15. Pair with Dips: Traditionally, these are perfect when paired with cream cheese or a spicy mustard dip. 16.Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding other herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or paprika.
16. Check for Doneness: Make sure the krekeri are fully cooked by tapping them to listen for a hollow sound.
17. Avoid Overbaking: Be cautious not to overbake, as this can cause them to become overly hard instead of crisp.
18. Custom Shapes: Use fun-themed cutters to make these crackers kid-friendly and exciting.
19. Enjoy the Process: Take your time to enjoy crafting these delightful snacks, as it brings a touch of tradition to your kitchen.

Tips

• Substitution Tip: You can substitute rye flour with whole wheat flour for a different taste.
• Enhance Flavor: For a more intense flavor, toast the cumin seeds before adding them to the dough.
• Make-ahead: The dough can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutritions

• Calories: 150 per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 7g
• Carbs: 19g

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose and rye flours.
• Vegan Krekeri: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Cheese: These crackers go exceptionally well with a variety of cheeses.
• Add Some Dip: Serve with hummus, guacamole, or a creamy yogurt dip.

Best Places to Try

1. Latvia House Cafe - Known for authentic ierauga krekeri.
2. Baltic Bites - A fusion cafe offering traditional Eastern European snacks.
3. Old Town Bakery - Famous for its freshly baked, fragrant krekeri.
4. Taste of Europe - Offers a variety of traditional snacks, including ierauga krekeri.
5. Rustic Table - Known for incorporating local spices into their krekeri.
6. Little Eastern Delight - Perfect for a taste of homemade ierauga krekeri.
7. Classic Crumble - Offers a modern twist on the traditional recipe.
8. Crispy Crust Bakery - Beloved for their crispy and flavorful krekeri.
9. Heritage Bakes - A place where traditional ingredients meet modern baking techniques.
10. Snack Haven Cafe - A cozy spot offering a wide range of traditional snacks.