Looking to spice up your meal with a cheesy and tangy delight? The Peri Peri Cheese Bread is a perfect treat for your taste buds! It’s easy to make and ideal for parties, family dinners, or even a cozy night in. This recipe will walk you through the steps to create a flavorful bread that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• ¾ cup warm water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (grated)
• 2 tbsp peri peri spice mix
• 2 tbsp butter (softened)
• 1 tbsp fresh coriander (chopped)

For the Topping:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp peri peri spice mix
• 1 tsp dried herbs (oregano or mixed herbs)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in warm water and olive oil, kneading the mixture until the dough becomes soft, smooth, and stretchy.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In another bowl, prepare the filling by mixing grated mozzarella cheese, peri peri spice blend, softened butter, and finely chopped coriander. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangular shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Spread the prepared filling evenly over the dough.
4. Roll the dough tightly into a log and seal the edges by pinching them together.

Step 4: Shape the Bread

1. Place the rolled dough into a greased baking tray, shaping it into a spiral or braid if desired.
2. Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle peri peri spice mix and dried herbs for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese starts bubbling.
2. Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before cutting into slices.

What to Serve with Peri Peri Cheese Bread

• Creamy Dips: Serve with garlic mayo, ranch, or a tangy peri peri sauce.
• Soups: Pair it with a warm tomato or minestrone soup for a hearty meal.
• Salads: A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the bread.

Khushaliben Ramani’s Tips

1. Customize the Filling: Add sweet corn, olives, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
2. Spice Level: Adjust the peri peri mix based on your spice preference.
3. Make it Ahead: Prepare the dough and filling in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour mix for a dietary-friendly version.