Quick Savory Donuts (Ciambelle Salate Veloci)
Category: Leavened Breads
Servings: 4 Donuts
These quick savory donuts are a perfect snack or appetizer, ideal for any occasion. Combining fresh vegetables, creamy fontina cheese, and delicate ham, these savory treats are as delicious as they are simple to make. With the help of instant yeast and minimal rising time, you can prepare these savory donuts in no time. Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them irresistible to both kids and adults. Here’s how to make them at home!
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 00 Flour | 250g |
| Water | 125g |
| Instant yeast for savory preparations | 6g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 10g |
| Fine salt | 1 tsp |
| Carrots | 100g |
| Zucchini | 100g |
| Fontina cheese | 100g |
| Cooked ham | 100g |
| Fresh liquid cream (for brushing) | As needed |
Preparation Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare the dough | In a mixing bowl, combine the 00 flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir the dry ingredients together until evenly mixed. Gradually add the water and olive oil, mixing as you go. Begin kneading the dough with your hands until it forms a smooth, homogeneous mixture. Continue kneading for a few more minutes to achieve a soft and elastic dough. |
| 2. Let the dough rest | Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and continue kneading for another minute or two. Once smooth, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This brief rest helps the dough relax and become easier to handle. |
| 3. Prepare the fillings | While the dough rests, dice the fontina cheese into small cubes. Peel the carrots and slice them into thin rounds using a vegetable peeler. For the zucchini, wash and thinly slice them without peeling, to retain their texture and flavor. Set the vegetables and cheese aside. |
| 4. Shape the donuts | After the dough has rested, divide it into four equal portions, each weighing around 100g. Roll each portion into a small ball, then flatten it into an oval shape about 3mm thick. Be sure to handle the dough gently so it doesn’t lose its elasticity. |
| 5. Add the fillings | Place a generous amount of diced ham on each oval, followed by the sliced zucchini and carrots. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed across the dough. |
| 6. Form the donuts | Gently lift the edge of the dough closest to you and begin rolling it up, enclosing the filling. Once rolled, join the two ends to form a ring and press them together with your fingers to seal. This will create a donut-like shape. Repeat this process with the remaining portions of dough. |
| 7. Bake the donuts | Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the formed donuts on it, leaving a little space between each. Lightly brush the tops of the donuts with fresh cream to give them a golden and glossy finish while baking. |
| 8. Bake and serve | Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These quick savory donuts are best enjoyed warm, with their rich fillings and tender texture. |
Tips & Variations
- Vegetable options: Feel free to swap out the zucchini and carrots for other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!
- Cheese variations: If you don’t have fontina, you can use other melting cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: These savory donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.
These quick savory donuts are a fantastic option for a family snack, a light lunch, or even an appetizer for your next gathering. Their simplicity, combined with the rich, savory fillings, makes them a treat that everyone will love. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for the best experience!
