Greek Yogurt Honey Dough with Savory Topping

Greek Yogurt Honey Dough with Savory Topping
This Greek Yogurt Honey Dough is a deliciously soft and slightly sweet dough that can be used for a variety of savory or sweet applications. The tanginess from the yogurt pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey, while the yeast ensures the dough rises to a fluffy, airy texture. The optional savory topping adds a rich and flavorful contrast, making this recipe versatile enough for both breakfast and dinner.

Ingredients:
For the Dough:
250g Yogurt (8.8 oz)
30g Honey (1.1 oz)
6g Dried Yeast (0.2 oz)
270g Flour (9.5 oz)
1 Egg
40ml Water (1.4 fl oz)
30g Additional Flour (1.1 oz) for slurry
For the Savory Topping (Optional):
1 Onion, chopped
1 Carrot, chopped
1 Zucchini, chopped
10g Garlic, minced
4g Salt
2g Black Pepper
7g Dill
230g Cream Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Combine Yogurt and Honey:

In a mixing bowl, combine the 250g yogurt and 30g honey. Stir well until the honey is fully dissolved in the yogurt. This combination will give the dough a subtle sweetness and a tangy flavor.
Hydrate the Yeast:

Add 6g dried yeast to the yogurt mixture. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to hydrate and activate. This step is essential as it allows the yeast to bloom and ensures the dough will rise properly.
Add Flour and Egg:

Gradually add 270g flour to the mixture, mixing well. Add 1 egg and continue mixing until the dough is smooth and all the ingredients are well incorporated. The egg adds richness to the dough and helps bind the ingredients together.
2. Rest and Rise:
First Rest:

Cover the dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 40 minutes. This allows the dough to rise and develop its airy texture, as the yeast ferments the sugars and produces carbon dioxide, causing the dough to expand.
Additional Resting:

After the initial rise, divide the dough into equal portions. Let the portions rest for an additional 10 minutes. This second rest period helps relax the gluten, making the dough easier to shape and ensuring a more even texture.
3. Final Preparation:
Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when the dough is ready to bake, helping it rise perfectly and develop a golden brown crust.
Prepare the Slurry:

In a small bowl, mix 40ml water with 30g flour to create a slurry. This slurry will be used to brush the dough portions before baking, providing a glossy finish and slight crispness to the crust.
4. Brush the Dough and Bake:
Brush the Dough:

Once the dough portions have rested, brush them with the flour-water slurry. This will give the dough a beautiful, shiny finish and enhance its texture.
Bake:

Place the dough portions on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 35 minutes, or until they are golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the dough to ensure it doesn’t over-bake.
5. Optional Savory Topping:
Prepare the Topping:

While the dough is baking, prepare the savory topping by chopping 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 zucchini, and 10g garlic.
Season with 4g salt and 2g black pepper. Add 7g dill and 230g cream cheese and mix well.
Once the dough is baked and cooled slightly, you can spread this flavorful topping on top for a burst of savory goodness.
Serving Suggestions:
For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve the warm dough with a side of yogurt, fresh fruit, or even scrambled eggs for a balanced breakfast or brunch.

As a Snack: Enjoy these dough portions on their own or with a light dipping sauce, like tzatziki or hummus.

With a Savory Topping: The savory topping makes this dough ideal for a light dinner or lunch. Spread the creamy vegetable topping on the dough and serve as an open-faced sandwich or appetizer.

As a Side Dish: Serve the baked dough as a side dish with your favorite stew or soup. The slightly sweet, tangy bread complements rich, hearty dishes beautifully.

Cooking Tips:
Rest the Dough Properly: Let the dough rest as instructed to allow the yeast to work its magic. The resting time is key to developing a soft and airy texture.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the yogurt, egg, and water are at room temperature before you begin. This helps the dough come together more easily and rise evenly.

Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the dough during the last few minutes of baking to prevent it from getting too dark. The golden color indicates that it’s done.

Customize the Topping: The savory topping is optional, but you can experiment with other ingredients, such as feta cheese, olives, or cooked spinach, for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Variations to Try:
Sweet Version: Instead of a savory topping, drizzle the baked dough with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon for a sweet treat. You can also add dried fruits or nuts to the dough for extra texture.

Cheese and Herb Dough: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the dough before baking, along with a handful of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, for a cheesy, herby variation.

Spicy Dough: Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the dough for a spicy kick. This can pair well with the savory vegetable topping.

Vegan Version: For a vegan-friendly option, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds + 3 tablespoons water) and substitute the cream cheese topping with a plant-based alternative.

Conclusion:
This Greek Yogurt Honey Dough is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings and fillings. The combination of yogurt and honey creates a soft, flavorful dough that is perfect for both savory and sweet dishes. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, a snack, or dinner, this dough is sure to satisfy your cravings. The savory topping is optional but adds a burst of flavor, making the dish even more special. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious and versatile dough ready to enjoy!