03 Jun 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 cup self-raising flour
1/4 cup butter
1/3 cup dried oregano
1/2 cup cheddar cheese
1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
Delight your taste buds with this easy and delicious Oregano & Cheese Damper recipe. Perfect as a savory side to your favorite meals or a stand-alone snack, this recipe is a simple and quick way to bake fresh bread packed with aromatic oregano and rich, cheesy goodness.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour and dried oregano. Stir well to distribute the oregano evenly throughout the flour.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
- Cut the butter into small cubes. Add the butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
4. Add the Cheeses:
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure the cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Form the Dough:
- Add enough cold water to the dry mixture in small increments (start with about 1/4 cup of water and add more if needed) to bring the mixture together into a soft dough. Stir with a spatula or your hands until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Shape the Damper:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape the dough into a round loaf, about 1 inch thick. Place the loaf onto your prepared baking tray.
7. Score the Top:
- Using a sharp knife, score a cross on the top of the dough. This allows the heat to penetrate and ensures even cooking.
8. Bake:
- Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the damper is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the damper to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. This damper is delicious on its own or with a spread of butter.
Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder to the flour mixture.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can replace the water with milk when making the dough.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different twist on this recipe.
- Serve the damper with a side of herb butter or a drizzle of olive oil for an enhanced taste experience.
Enjoy this delightful Oregano & Cheese Damper as a perfect addition to any meal. Its simple preparation and robust flavors make it a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether served warm with a meal or savored on its own, this damper is sure to impress!