Homemade Veggie-Filled Dough Recipe
Homemade veggie-filled dough is a versatile and healthy option for various dishes. This recipe guide will walk you through the process of making the dough from scratch, filling it with delicious vegetables, and provide answers to common questions along with helpful tips.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
For the Veggie Filling:
- 1 cup spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Making the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Veggie Filling:
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add the bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Set aside to cool.
Assembling the Veggie-Filled Dough:
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions.
- On a floured surface, roll each portion into a thin circle or rectangle.
- Add the Filling:
- Place a generous amount of the veggie filling in the center of each dough piece.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. You can create different shapes like calzones or hand pies.
- Bake:
- Place the filled dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Questions and Tips
Q: Can I use other vegetables for the filling?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you prefer or have on hand. Zucchini, tomatoes, and eggplant are great alternatives.
Q: Can I freeze the veggie-filled dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled dough before baking. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, do not thaw; simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How can I make the dough gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose and whole wheat flours with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add 1 tsp yourself to help with elasticity.
Q: What can I serve with veggie-filled dough?
A: These can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or served with a side salad, dipping sauces like marinara or hummus, or a bowl of soup.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, add some grated cheese to the veggie filling.
- Ensure the dough is not too thick to avoid undercooked centers.
- Brushing the tops with olive oil or egg wash can give a beautiful golden finish.
Enjoy your homemade veggie-filled dough, a delightful and nutritious meal for any occasion!